Next TfL Commissioner

Neil Garratt: What attributes are you are looking for in the new TfL Commissioner, and what objectives would you wish them to achieve?

The Mayor: I want to acknowledge the excellent job done by our outgoing Commissioner, Andy Byford, over the last two and a half years. This has been an extremely busy and challenging period for transport in London.
His talent and tireless work have ensured that, despite the huge challenges we have faced, our public transport network remains world-class.As he returns to the USA with his wife, he has my sincere thanks, and I wish him all the best, on behalf of all Londoners.
I am grateful to Andy Lord for stepping intothe role of interim Transport Commissioner. Hebrings with him a wealth of experience and commitment to leading our city's public transport network, having previously held the positions of TfL Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of London Underground. Transport for London is in safe hands.
It’s important that following the most disruptive period in TfL's history, the ship is now steadied. The recruitment process will look for someone ready to take on this challenge and lead TfL from the front.
The right person will need to recognise and harness the huge talent within TfL, and I want the new Commissioner to work positively with staff and trade unions to deliver the best service for our city.
They will also need to work positively with central government to continue to make the case for investment in London, including at the borough level, to secure a strong recovery.
My priorities for transport across the capital are set out in my Transport Strategy and I expect the new Commissioner to use the MTS as their framework for addressing the significant challenges we face as a city.
They will need to motivate colleagues and partners, and work collaboratively on a vision to deliver a transport network that will help create a fairer, safer and greener city and secure a net zero carbon future.
Londoners can be assured that, along with the TfL Board, I will be appointing a Commissioner who is up to these challenges, and who is focussed on ensuring London's transport network remains the best in the world.

Fuel Poverty Partnership

Tony Devenish: Can you outline the progress on engaging with partners under your Fuel Poverty Partnership?

The Mayor: My Fuel Poverty Partnership, supported by National Energy Action, brings together partners from across London.
It has agreed actions in four areas: 1) the immediate cost-of living crisis; 2) the private rented sector; 3) minimising the health impacts of cold homes; and 4) how all, including the fuel poor, can benefit from heat decarbonisation measures such as heat pumps.
I The Partnership also discussed my Fairer London Plan, including how to promote my cost-of-living hub and my new Energy Advice London service to under-represented sectors Immediate actions this winter include: dissemination of information of help available through Partnership networks, including through the NHS, and via boroughs; helping to target the most vulnerable groups, including the digitally excluded, and under-represented groups that don’t have English as a first language; and providing guides on decarbonisation measures, including briefings for new councillors.

Warmer Homes Scheme (1)

Tony Devenish: The Warmer Homes Scheme has been ongoing since 2018, can you provide metrics for the current success rate of the scheme and the uptake?

The Mayor: Please also see my response to MQ 2022/3217.

Supporting the Right to Grow campaign

Zack Polanski: Are you aware of the ‘right to grow’ campaign for legislation that would give people the right to grow fruit and vegetables on underused public spaces? Will you support this campaign and its aims in order to increase food security and land access for Londoners?

The Mayor: I am supportive of expanding the amount of food growing space in London and recognise the range of benefits for health, food security and social integration that community food growing can promote. However, additional legislation is not necessarily the only way to achieve this. Local authorities should be encouraged to enable a range of food growing spaces, both through long-term allocated spaces, and through less formal or temporary opportunities on sites that will be developed in future.
My London Plan supports this through Policy G8 Food Growing. This policy encourages provision of space for urban agriculture, including community gardening, and food growing within new developments and as a meanwhile use on vacant or under-utilised sites; as well as promoting the identification of potential sites that could be used for food production through borough Local Plans.

Removing the bankers’ bonus cap

Zack Polanski: The announcement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 23 September about removing the cap on bankers’ bonuses will only widen income inequality in London. How will you and your Deputy Mayor for Business work with big businesses to encourage them to keep bonuses under control so that inequality does not get worse and the dangerous speculation that caused the 2008 financial crisis does not repeat itself?

The Mayor: The announcement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 23 September about removing the cap on bankers’ bonuses will only widen income inequality in London. How will you and your Deputy Mayor for Business work with big businesses to encourage them to keep bonuses under control so that inequality does not get worse and the dangerous speculation that caused the 2008 financial crisis does not repeat itself?
I want London to retain its competitive position as a leading global financial services hub, and attract top talent from around the world. But this must be done without incentivising irresponsible levels of risk and the kind of poor practices that led to the financial crisis in 2008. I do not believe that the removal of the cap on bankers bonuses, which was introduced in response to that devastating crisis, is the right thing to do. My Deputy Mayor for Business and I will continue to engage with the financial services sector to promote responsible practices, as well as the best in employment standards through my Good Work Standard.

Lifeline tariff

Zack Polanski: You have proposed a lifeline tariff, which would provide a basic level of energy free to vulnerable customers. Have you discussed how such a tariff could be implemented with any of the UK’s energy suppliers, and if so, could you share their responses?

The Mayor: While Government has belatedly capped energy prices, this is still at a level nearly double that of last winter. Many Londoners are having to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table this winter.
The introduction of a ‘lifeline tariff’ for the most vulnerable would allow a minimum floor of domestic energy use before charges begin. The minimum essential energy needed for a household would be provided for free, with any charges kicking in only once this threshold had been met.
I have suggested this idea to the Government as it will take central Government action to implement. There are a range of ways to fund this, ranging from direct Government funding, to t f an extension of the windfall tax on fossil fuel companies.

Energy and small businesses

Zack Polanski: What programmes do you have to help small businesses manage rising energy costs and reduce their carbon footprints?

The Mayor: Supporting London’s unique ecosystem of businesses is a priority- two of my programmes focus on exactly managing energy costs and carbon emissions.
My Business Climate Challenge, which works with SMEs to reduce their workplace energy consumption, bills, and emissions. In 2021 the average participants could reduce their energy consumption by 16%, saving up to £8,300. This year’s programme will support 250 businesses, providing them with expert advice and support to improve operational efficiency of their buildings and to upskill staff.
My Better Futures+ programme offers free net zero support to SMEs to learn about and reduce their carbon impact, cut costs and cater to the growing consumer market for eco-products and services. We help business first understand what their emissions are, identify their hotspots and then target these areas to make reductions.
My London Business Hub has also launched a Cost of Doing Business hub- with information on energy bill support and other resources.

Sexual health funding cuts

Caroline Russell: At the London Assembly Plenary on 6 December 2018, a motion was passed unanimouslyurging you to make strong representations to London boroughs calling for them to make sexual health support a priority. Could you tell me what action you have taken and share any responses you received?

The Mayor: Although I have no statutory responsibility for the commissioning of health services, I am committed to championing and challenging these services on behalf of Londoners, and my Health Inequalities Strategy recognises the need to promote good sexual health.
You will be aware that London boroughs are mandated to commission comprehensive open access sexual health services, including free STI testing and treatment. Successive real terms cuts to the Public Health Grant means that councils have struggled to meet increasing demand. I have repeatedly lobbied government on this issue, most recently in relation to the monkeypox outbreak.
Even in the face of huge financial pressures, public health teams and sexual health service providers are continuing to innovate. The introduction of online services has improved access and helped to meet the changing and increasing needs of Londoners, particularly over the pandemic.

Death of police horse

Caroline Russell: Police Horse Sandown died after collapsing on duty at Notting Hill Carnival on 28 August 2022. It was announced that an investigation into his death would be launched. Could you update me on the progress of this investigation, and if any operational changes will be made as a result of this death?

The Mayor: This was a tragic event that has deeply saddened all that knew and loved Sandown within his police family, and understandably the public who were concerned at hearing about his death.
A full post-mortem was carried out on PH Sandown following his sudden death at Notting Hill Carnival. The results showed that Sandown had suffered a catastrophic heart attack that was an entirely unforeseen and unpreventable event. The post-mortem showed Sandown to have been in excellent physical health. There were no warning signs, and the vet completing the report stated that this was an entirely spontaneous event that would have occurred wherever Sandown was at the time. It was also reported that no medical intervention would have saved him or prevented him from dying at the roadside as he did. There will be no operational changes made following his death.

Banning spit hoods

Caroline Russell: Queensland police in Australia recently announced that they would ban the use of spit hoods. Do you or the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have any plans to follow their lead and ban the use of spit hoods in London?

The Mayor: I recognise that the use of spit and bite guards can be concerning to the public. That is why they were only introduced in the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) following a pilot and public consultation. In addition, my Office for Policing and Crime introduced a further safeguard where during their visits to MPS custody suites our Independent Custody Visitors will offer to speak with any detainees where use of force, including spit and bite guards, has been deployed.
The MPS also monitors their use, including the reviewing of Body Worn Video by supervising officers and the recently launched Policing Encounter Panels, which allow independent community members to scrutinise encounters involving the use of force.
Like any use of force, the deployment of spit and bite guards, which protects officers from bodily fluid exposure and the risk of injury, must be lawful, proportionate and recorded in line with the Home Office’s recording requirements. Spit and bite guards are only issued to officers who have been appropriately trained and are only applied when an individual presents a risk.
The MPS follows national protocol issued by the National Police Chiefs Council and while there are no imminent plans to review their use, this is kept under constant review with clear safety protocols in place.

Queen’s funeral arrests

Caroline Russell: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) confirmed that 67 people were arrested on 19 September 2022 as part of the policing operation for the Queen’s funeral. Could you confirm how many people were arrested in total in the multi-day policing operation for the Lying-in-State and the Queen’s funeral, broken down by offence? Could you provide this data in table format?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has confirmed to me that 69 were arrested as part of the policing operation following the death of Her Majesty The Queen. The MPS also provided a breakdown of these arrests as below:
Offence
# Arrests
Assault
5
Assault on Police
3
Criminal Damage
2
Drugs
4
Obstruction
1
Weapons
4
Public Order
10
Theft
6
Sexual Offences
5
Other
29
Please note that ‘Other’ includes offences such as breach of peace, recalls to prison, and drunk and disorderly.

Harrow Food Donation Drop-off Point Reintroduced

Krupesh Hirani: St George’s Shopping Centre in Harrow is helping struggling families as the cost-of-living crisis continues by reintroducing their food donation drop-off point. Do you agree this is a shocking sign of the times in London?

The Mayor: It’s a disgrace that so many Londoners are facing destitution. GLA polling from last month shows that increased living costs are forcing 9% of Londoners to go without food or other essentials. This proportion rises to 28% amongst Londoners who are struggling financially. One-in-ten Londoners are also using more credit or going into debt just to get by.
I’m doing all I can to help by investing further in advice services that support Londoners to maximise their incomes, raising awareness of rights and entitlements through my Cost-of-Living Hub, and driving down energy bills in the long-term through my Warmer Homes Programme. However, the scale of the challenge requires national government action, and the Energy Price Guarantee doesn’t go far enough.
That’s why I’m calling on Government to introduce a lifeline energy tariff for those on the lowest incomes and stick to its commitment to increase welfare benefits by inflation.

Funding to Tackle Chewing Gum on High Streets

Krupesh Hirani: Brent, along with other authorities, has won a grant of up to £70,000 for removing chewing gum from high streets. What more can be done in terms of public information to stop the blight of carelessly disposed gum?

The Mayor: I was pleased to hear that Brent, alongside Camden and Croydon, were amongst the first recipients of DEFRA’s new Chewing Gum Task Force grant scheme, administered by Keep Britain Tidy.I have collaborated with Keep Britain Tidy to promote the Big British Spring Clean and supported Parks for London, awarding them funding to carry their important work reducing littering within London’s green spaces. I also worked with them to support their spring anti-littering campaign – Clean Parks for London – launched in April 2022.
I am urging boroughs to reduce waste, including litter, and have asked councils to outline actions they are taking to reduce littering within their Reduction and Recycling Plans and continue to work with Keep Britain Tidy and organisations like Parks for London. Keep Britain Tidy have considerable experience in developing behavioural change campaigns and can support London boroughs in tailoring communications to make them impactful.

Reviewing LPGs

Sakina Sheikh: What mechanisms are there for reviewing London Plan Guidance (LPG) documents once they have been finalised? Would you consider reviewing them should new information come to light on a subject?

The Mayor: The new approach to Mayoral guidance was specifically designed to allow updates as information changes. As they are not statutory documents, updates can be made more readily than an update to the London Plan.
In deciding whether to change an LPG, the value of any change, the scale of work required, and the availability of resources to make the change would need to be weighed. Although LPGs are less resource intensive than a London Plan, they still require considerable resource and go through full consultation processes and a formal Mayoral Decision. This would also apply to any LPG amendments.

Neighbourhood Planning

Sakina Sheikh: What support is the GLA providing to support neighbourhood planning groups write a Neighbourhood Plan?

The Mayor: The best support the Mayor can give to support qualifying neighbourhood bodies when they prepare neighbourhood planning documents is to ensure that Mayoral policy and guidance recognises the statutory powers of these groups and the plan-making functions they can choose to take up.
An adopted Neighbourhood Plan has the same statutory weight as local plans and the London Plan in the determination of planning applications. Therefore, London Plan Guidance relating to plan-making is inclusive of neighbourhood as well as local planning. This recognises that it may be a neighbourhood planning body implementing plan-making, instead of or alongside a local authority.
London Plan Guidance also provides for neighbourhood planning groups to have a recognised role as a statutory body when local authorities are undertaking character assessments and preparing growth strategies and design codes.

Working with OfWat (1)

Leonie Cooper: Please provide details of how you have worked with OfWat to set and monitor ambitious targets to cut water leakages.

The Mayor: I have fought for Londoners for better water infrastructure. I called on both Thames Water and Ofwat to do more to boost London’s water supply resilience. I have lobbied for performance reporting for London – which Ofwat agreed with, and Thames Water are now presenting their annual performance for London
I have pushed to reduce the 24 % of water supply that Thames Water lose through leakage - which is just water wasted – and reduce disruptive mains bursts which are most likely to occur during periods of high demand when Londoners most need a reliable supply of water. Thames Water has just met their target for the last three years to reduce leaks by 10 per cent, but there is considerably more to do as evidenced in the recently announced fine (see MQ3686). I will continue to push for a better deal for Londoners in the next business plan period in starting in 2024.

Working with OfWat (2)

Leonie Cooper: Please provide details of how you have worked with OfWat to ensure higher levels of investment in London’s water supply infrastructure to reduce leakage in London.

The Mayor: The Greater London Authority has responded to water company Water Resource Management Plans and business plan consultations. My Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy has met with both the chair of Ofwat and Thames Water’s CEO. My intervention was instrumental in Ofwat granting the £480m conditional allowance as part of their final determination at the last price review in 2019. This funding, which includes an additional £300m contribution from Thames Water’s shareholders as a condition and is ringfenced for London. This is to boost London’s water supply resilience and tackle the years of underinvestment. It is subject to meeting clear milestones scrutinised by OFWAT to ensure the funds are spent efficiently and the commitments are delivered. Thames Water’s recent announcement of a further £0.5bn equity and agreed another £1bn from shareholders is a further success.

Working with OfWat and the Environment Agency (EA) (1)

Leonie Cooper: How have you used your convening powers to help secure London’s future water supply with OfWat and the Environment Agency?

The Mayor: My Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy convenes my Water Advisory Group. This brings together regulators and water companies and third sector organisations and consumer champions. It scrutinises the role and activities of the water companies. It also brings together the water regulators to ensure action on improving London’s water and wastewater resilience and deliver improvements for Londoners and the environment. My officers also contribute to the regional Water Resources South East (WRSE) process, most recently commenting on their draft plan consultation. See MQ response 3695
The WRSE regional plan to be published this Autumn aims to set out the optimum solutions for meeting future water requirements. It considers wider factors beyond water resources such as protecting and enhancing the environment (reducing abstraction which is damaging rivers), prioritising low carbon solutions to produce a ‘best value’ plan.

Working with OfWat and the Environment Agency (EA) (2)

Leonie Cooper: Please provide an update on your work with OfWat and the Environment Agency to move forwards with Abingdon Reservoir.

The Mayor: GLA officers are a stakeholder on the Water Resources in the Southeast (WRSE) Advisory Group (See MQ3694).
The coming publication of Water Resource Management Plans (WRMP)s and the solutions proposed will take a new approach, informed for the first time by regional water resource planning This will ensure more efficient, strategic, cost effective and flexible solutions for supplying water are brought forward.
GLA officers responded to a recent WRSE consultation in March this year to ensure the most appropriate future water resources options are brought forward for London. This set out that the Abingdon reservoir as well as new water transfer schemes and a new water recycling facility (effluent reuse scheme) in London are preferred solutions to boost London’s supplies, alongside greater demand management by the water companies

Thames Barrier (2)

Leonie Cooper: With flood protection from the Thames Barrier originally anticipated to reduce from 2030 onwards, what assessment has been made of London’s needs from 2030 onwards?

The Mayor: As noted in question 2022/3698, the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan ten-year review has confirmed that the Thames Barrier provides the anticipated flood protection for London up to 2070. The Plan then sets a long-term adaptive pathway approach to managing tidal flood risk in London up to 2100 which includes the possibility of a new barrier or improving the current one. It’s updated as new data, scientific evidence and climate change projections become available.
By 2050, there is likely to be 59% more winter rainfall, and by 2100 once-a-century sea level events are expected to become annual events. Monitoring indicates population has grown by 14% between 2012 to 2022. The population continues to grow as the outer estuary is recognised by government as a prime growth opportunity area. As outlined in question 2022/3698 there are plans in place between now and 2070 to protect London from tidal flood risk include flood defence raising through development and riverside strategies.

Access to NHS Services

Emma Best: Can you confirm whether you believe anyone in the world that is not currently eligible to use NHS services in London should be able to do so?

The Mayor: Ensuring that anyone who lives in the UK can access healthcare that is free at the point of need would enable all Londoners to come forward for treatment and vaccinations without fear.

Polio Vaccine

Emma Best: Can you please provide an update on Polio vaccine uptake in London in 2022?

The Mayor: The roll-out of the poliovirus booster vaccine is well underway throughout London and data on uptake has recently been published by the NHS. The vaccine is available at general practices as well as 40 sites across the city for walk-in or booked vaccinations, including vaccination centres, hospital hubs and community pharmacies. I Parents can find these at the following link: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polio/vaccination-sites/

Professional Services

Neil Garratt: Professional and financial services are a key part of London’s economy, what have you done to boost these sectors, and what further plans do you have?

The Mayor: I will continue to champion London on the world stage as the global centre for financial and professional services. London’s business growth and destination agency, London and Partners, promotes London as a leading global destination to invest in and supports organisations in these sectors to set up, scale and expand internationally.
In particular, there are major opportunities for London’s professional and financial sectors around green finance. London is currently the number one green finance global centre and I’ll continue to raise London’s profile on the global stage as the world’s best destination for green investors, companies and innovators.
My Deputy Mayor for Business, Rajesh Agrawal and I will continue to regularly engage with financial and professional services to ensure that we are supporting and championing their interests. That means responding to challenges such as the need for more homegrown talent with the skills businesses need, the ongoing impacts of Brexit and the Covid pandemic, representing the sectors’ needs to Government where appropriate, and supporting our international competitiveness and reputation.

Met calls 2

Tony Devenish: From October 2018 to September 2022 please can you provide a monthly satisfaction level of 101 callers received by the Metropolitan Police Service?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) advises me that this information is not recorded.
The MOPAC User Satisfaction Survey (USS) has questions based on “Ease of Contact” but these incorporate all forms of Public Contact into one score and could reflect everything from 999 calls to experience at front counters. The USS captures views of victims of hate crime, assault, residential burglary and personal robbery. The latest USS figure shows a satisfaction level of 85% with “Ease of Contact” (discrete Q1 FY 22-23).

Met calls 3

Tony Devenish: From October 2018 to September 2022 please can you provide a monthly breakdown of the number of 999 calls received by the Metropolitan Police Service, the average waiting time and the number terminated before being answered?

The Mayor: Please refer to the information provided by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) below for a monthly breakdown of the number of 999 calls received, average waiting time, and number of abandoned calls between October 2018 and September 2022.
Met calls 3 - Question No. 2022/3585
999 Call Volume
Average Speed of Answer (Wait Time) Seconds
999 Abandoned Calls
Oct-18
189769
15.27
2875
Nov-18
182046
13.37
2176
Dec-18
187078
14.38
3370
Jan-19
169306
5.78
890
Feb-19
168481
9.98
1246
Mar-19
192533
13.66
2121
Apr-19
186498
11.26
1218
May-19
198822
13.43
1604
Jun-19
209653
18.00
2301
Jul-19
224361
17.27
2373
Aug-19
207538
12.05
1609
Sep-19
200259
12.66
1551
Oct-19
206737
11.07
1279
Nov-19
196003
9.71
1121
Dec-19
199397
10.20
1109
Jan-20
185191
8.51
973
Feb-20
183265
10.97
1187
Mar-20
180406
10.30
1378
Apr-20
147312
6.01
825
May-20
163298
5.27
675
Jun-20
171180
5.88
825
Jul-20
188259
9.20
1447
Aug-20
190350
8.82
1148
Sep-20
176932
10.36
1272
Oct-20
175137
10.78
1003
Nov-20
156658
9.33
876
Dec-20
160549
11.41
1303
Jan-21
143528
11.31
1104
Feb-21
138045
11.95
1094
Mar-21
161881
12.88
1247
Apr-21
162257
12.32
1139
May-21
182010
16.08
1980
Jun-21
197148
23.74
3890
Jul-21
206888
37.42
7459
Aug-21
184347
20.71
3227
Sep-21
191745
26.63
4407
Oct-21
192695
18.83
2746
Nov-21
178574
17.52
2162
Dec-21
188448
25.67
3842
Jan-22
171380
13.41
1651
Feb-22
168965
15.20
2233
Mar-22
191412
21.66
3098
Apr-22
185018
22.58
3008
May-22
201730
22.58
3364
Jun-22
209731
39.82
7076
Jul-22
236029
51.46
14861
Aug-22
216696
41.55
8054
Sep-22
197072
23.75
3814

Tree Planting

Tony Devenish: Please confirm that under your £3.1m Tree Planting Package, environmental specialists will be consulted to ensure that trees are planted in the correct climate for them to thrive. Will you provide reports of their findings to show the planting will be sustainable? Government has announced a Domestic Tree Seed Production Grant. Will you be supportive of this grant to ensure that you will plant trees that are native to London?

The Mayor: My £3.1m Trees for London programme is supporting a range of tree planting projects in line with my climate resilience aims, working with London boroughs and environmental charities. Street tree planting will be carried out by boroughs and their contractors, and we’re working with Trees for Streets to encourage Londoners to water trees. TCV are providing advice to community groups on planting and caring for the tree planter packs. All partners understand the principles of planting the right tree in the right place, and GLA officers share guidance including the Forestry Commission’s Urban Tree Manual.
The government’s Seed Sourcing Grant, announced in September, is welcome support for increasing the quality, quantity and diversity of tree seed sources in England which can help meet tree planting targets and create more resilient woodlands.

Met calls 1

Tony Devenish: From October 2018 to September 2022 please can you provide a monthly breakdown of the number of 101 calls received by the Metropolitan Police Service, the average waiting time and the number terminated before being answered?

The Mayor: A monthly breakdown of the number of 101 calls received by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), the average speed of answer (in seconds) and the volume of 101 abandoned calls is shown in the table below.
The information must be viewed in the context that the Met 101 phone line starts with a recorded message that suggests alternative routes to resolve the reason for a call and provides call divert options. If a caller decides to use one of these alternative contact routes this will be recorded as an abandoned call in the data below but may reflect a positive diversion to a more appropriate contact channel to meet the public needs. There is no technical solution currently available to compare diversion and true abandonment. This is something that the MPS is looking to improve with the introduction of new technology solutions in 2023.
Month-Year
101 Call Volume
Average Speed of Answer (Wait Time) Seconds
101 Abandoned Calls
Oct-18
146,609
64.9
22,058
Nov-18
147,564
103.2
31,001
Dec-18
135,754
70.9
21,812
Jan-19
140,280
30.8
11,489
Feb-19
136,597
73.2
23,133
Mar-19
152,886
106.1
33,435
Apr-19
144,630
54.2
18,204
May-19
148,960
86.5
24,984
Jun-19
153,660
147.5
39,511
Jul-19
166,604
133.5
39,374
Aug-19
151,296
88.7
25,533
Sep-19
150,394
154.6
41,558
Oct-19
149,984
91.1
26,526
Nov-19
143,324
90.5
27,065
Dec-19
131,902
69.9
20,419
Jan-20
141,798
64.1
21,261
Feb-20
141,279
95.5
26,585
Mar-20
135,681
86.4
23,358
Apr-20
132,430
36.0
10,898
May-20
145,950
14.7
5,247
Jun-20
155,251
32.6
11,666
Jul-20
162,428
38.1
13,910
Aug-20
159,341
58.3
19,713
Sep-20
155,595
152.5
39,115
Oct-20
150,816
141.4
35,132
Nov-20
141,628
103.8
25,097
Dec-20
133,213
90.5
22,658
Jan-21
130,986
104.5
25,247
Feb-21
129,022
122.0
26,045
Mar-21
149,785
116.7
30,512
Apr-21
139,435
105.2
26,235
May-21
147,523
146.4
36,534
Jun-21
156,663
231.2
53,810
Jul-21
159,233
405.2
73,887
Aug-21
139,151
198.0
41,617
Sep-21
143,625
266.7
51,086
Oct-21
137,990
170.6
35,367
Nov-21
132,828
192.3
37,060
Dec-21
120,254
241.3
40,118
Jan-22
122,348
145.3
28,989
Feb-22
118,297
166.8
29,709
Mar-22
132,477
319.3
46,613
Apr-22
119,739
171.9
31,730
May-22
135,662
234.2
43,662
Jun-22
137,978
472.4
65,537
Jul-22
143,572
483.2
76,437
Aug-22
139,350
406.6
66,575
Sep-22
125,872
293.7
47,546

Waking Watches and London’s Boroughs

Anne Clarke: Please provide a borough-by-borough breakdown of the number of buildings operating waking watches in London. Please also breakdown the numbers for buildings over 18m and under 18m in each borough.

The Mayor: London Fire Brigade (LFB) collects data for buildings with a temporary suspension of ‘stay put’ where an interim simultaneous evacuation strategy has been put in place. This includes, but is not limited to, waking watches, which the National Fire Chiefs Council guidance defines as a system where ‘suitably trained persons continually patrol all floors and the exterior perimeter of the building in order to detect a fire, raise the alarm, and carry out the role of evacuation management’.
Residential buildings with an interim simultaneous evacuation strategy in place could have personnel on site or a remote monitoring system, but this is determined by the Responsible Person with guidance from a competent fire safety professional.
The figures can change on a daily basis when interim measures are required, or a building is remediated and no longer requires the interim measures. The number of buildings where an interim simultaneous evacuation strategy has been put in place, as of 15th September 2022, are presented by borough and by height in the table below.

The Mayor: 3667 Table.docx

Air Quality Audit

Tony Devenish: Will you provide an update on whether the recommendations from the air quality audit in 2018 have yielded positive results and significant changes to the air quality around schools and nurseries? Please provide metrics.

The Mayor: The wide range of measures that I have introduced between 2016 and 2019 have improved air quality across the capital, helping reduce the number of schools located in areas exceeding legal limits for NO2 from 450 to 20, a reduction of 96 per cent.
My air quality audit programmes offered a range of recommendations to schools and nurseries which directly addressed on-site emissions or encouraged behavioural changes to reduce children’s exposure to pollution.
Some recommendations can demonstrate quantifiable benefits, e.g. a study we commissioned in 2020 found that School Streets reduced nitrogen dioxide by up to 23 per cent during morning drop off. However, others that also promote positive behavioural change, such as the installation of bike racks to encourage active travel, are more challenging to quantify.
An overall evaluation of the audit programme should be complete by mid-next year, once we’ve received all reporting from the audited schools and nurseries.

London Zero Waste Target

Tony Devenish: In the 2020/21 period, London was again the region to send the most waste for incineration, at 64.1%. Under your environmental plan, you want to make London zero waste by 2050, therefore please can you explain why you will not support the campaign to stop the expansion of the Edmonton Incinerator?

The Mayor: I have been clear that London is facing a climate emergency and an air pollution crisis, and I continue to oppose new incineration capacity in London, which is not needed to manage the city’s non-recyclable waste.
The decision to grant permission for the expansion of the Edmonton facility was not referable to the Mayor and was made by the Secretary of State for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy in 2017. I opposed the application to extend the existing plant, however I have no powers to pause the Edmonton scheme.
I am therefore focused on making sure that this facility, and London’s other incinerators, minimise their local environmental impact. This includes ensuring that they manage only truly non-recyclable waste, maximise electricity generation, capture and use the waste heat created during the process, and operate with the best available techniques to reduce air pollution emissions.

Neighbourhood Teams in Brent

Krupesh Hirani: In your reply of 13 September, you said – ‘There are some wards without dedicated Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and these are being supported by neighbouring wards. The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) remains committed to providing a PCSO in each ward and is actively recruiting additional staff.’ Can you please update me on progress made to date by the MPS?

The Mayor: Ward officer data is included within the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) monthly workforce report. It can be accessed here: Workforce data report | Metropolitan Police
I will continue to hold the Commissioner to account to maintain the commitment of 2 Dedicated Ward Officers and 1 PCSO in every Ward in London, including recruiting to PCSO roles when they become vacant.

Public Practice and Accessibility Officers

Sakina Sheikh: Do you know if Public Practice funded any Accessibility Officers in any of the boroughs? If not, will you consider prioritising this in future?

The Mayor: The placement of Public Practice Associates is led by the requirements of participating local authorities and to date specialist, dedicated Accessibility Officer expertise has not been called upon via this recruitment route. However, inclusivity and accessibility are central cross-cutting values of Public Practice and are embedded in the ethos across all posts. Many roles are aligned with significant regeneration opportunities across London where the programme boosts boroughs capacity, skills and expertise across place shaping, including inclusive design and accessibility.
Public Practice is an independent, not-for-profit social enterprise. While the GLA supported its establishment and remains a sponsor, it does not directly manage its operation.
The placement of Public Practice Associates is led by the requirements of participating local authorities. The full breakdown of Associates to date and their roles is available on the Public Practice website.

Neighbourhood Teams in Harrow

Krupesh Hirani: In your reply of 13 September, you said – ‘There are some wards without dedicated Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and these are being supported by neighbouring wards. The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) remains committed to providing a PCSO in each ward and is actively recruiting additional staff.’ Can you please update me on progress made to date by the MPS?

The Mayor: Ward officer data is included within the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) monthly workforce report. It can be accessed here: Workforce data report | Metropolitan Police
I will continue to hold the Commissioner to account to maintain the commitment of 2 Dedicated Ward Officers and 1 PCSO in every Ward in London, including recruiting to PCSO roles when they become vacant.

Police Complaints (2)

Unmesh Desai: It was not viewed as appropriate for MOPAC to take on the enhanced responsibilities that model two and three entailed due to the volume of complaints that the Met - being the largest police force in the country -receives. This decision was to be reviewed after a year of operation, can you tell us about the progress of this work and whether MOPAC is looking to change its model?

The Mayor: My Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime has carefully monitored the workload and performance of the MOPAC Police Complaints Review Team (CRT). Due to the large volume of complaints dealt with by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), the workload for the CRT has been greater than expected. Other changes to complaints legislation have meant that MOPAC have been the Relevant Review Body (RRB) for an unexpectedly high proportion of MPS review requests. Approximately 77% of all MPS review applications relating to complaints have been to MOPAC rather than the IOPC. To manage the demand MOPAC recruited additional staff in January 2021 and January 2022. I am satisfied that Model One continues to be the correct approach.

Warm Spaces and Cost of Living Pressures

Keith Prince: Given the current cost of living pressures and the number of people likely to need a warm space this winter, what support are you and the GLA giving to London's hardest hit and are you helping to fund warm banks?

The Mayor: As temperatures drop and Londoners need to start putting the heating on, I'macutely aware of the stress and financial pressures that many households will currently be under. It is an outrage that in 2022 so many families will be facing the prospect of not being able to heat their homes or put food on the table this winter.
Some London boroughs have taken the lead in signposting members of the public to ‘warm spaces’ that they run or support.In some cases, these will be public buildings where hours and available provision is being extended. In other cases, they are centres owned and run by faith-based groups, community groups or charities. For example, Islington made an announcement about their plans just last week.
My officials have been working with London Councils, who are leading the coordination of this work. The GLA has shared insights from the ‘Cool Spaces’ initiative that we implemented this summer, and I stand ready to support in any way that is needed.
I am doing everything in my power to support Londoners going into this winter. I am investing in London’s advice sector to help ensure households are aware of and accessing all the support they are entitled to.
I have funded the Energy Saving Trust to establish a new energy advice service through which Londoners can receive advice on saving energy and keeping warm at home. It will also help to signpost low-income households to my £43 million Warmer Homes retrofit programme.
My cost-of-living hub contains extensive information for Londoners on the support that’s available to help ease the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis. This resource was launched in April and is being widely promoted via a range of channels.
But the role of central Government remains of paramount importance. The Energy Price Guarantee doesn’t solve this crisis, and energy bills will continue to rise in hard-pressed households across the country.
We need to see the introduction of a lifeline tariff to ensure those that need it most have access to an uncharged amount of daily energy, in order to keep them safe and warm. And crucially, the government must stick to its commitment to increase welfare benefits, like Universal Credit, by inflation.

Animal Cruelty (2)

Unmesh Desai: What percentage of these reports led to a positive outcome? Could I again have this broken down by borough.

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have provided the attached information as a response to both MQ 2022/3714 and this question which details the figures for the requested time periods. The data presents two tables with the figures for Animal cruelty and percentage of positive outcomes of animal cruelty broken down by borough.
Please ensure the notes page is read in conjunction with the information to aid in interpretation.

The Mayor: 3714_&_3715 Animal Cruelty (1-2) (1).xlsx

Cross Border Exercises (1)

Anne Clarke: According to the HMICFRS Effectiveness, Efficiency and People report 2021/22 LFB has the lowest rate of cross border exercises nationally. How many cross-border exercises are planned to the end of this financial year?

The Mayor: I welcomed the latest report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services into London Fire Brigade (LFB). It is vital that we can all feel confident in LFB’s ability to keep Londoners safe.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) currently has a number of cross border exercises planned with partner agencies, including Borough Resilience Forums (BRF), Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Ambulance Services, airports and neighbouring fire and rescue services (FRS). LFB currently has 15 exercises planned: 12 with five neighbouring FRS for the remainder of this financial year and three specifically for counter terrorism activity.

Animal Cruelty (1)

Unmesh Desai: How many instances of animal cruelty were reported to the MPS in London in the last three years? Could I have this broken down by borough.

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have provided the attached information as a response to both this question and MQ 2022/3715 which details the figures for the requested time periods. The data presents two tables with the figures for Animal cruelty and percentage of positive outcomes of animal cruelty broken down by borough.
Please ensure the notes page is read on conjunction with the information to aid in interpretation.

The Mayor: 3714_&_3715 Animal Cruelty (1-2) (1).xlsx

8 Albert Embankment

Anne Clarke: What progress has been made with the sale of the Brigade’s former HQ at 8 Albert Embankment?

The Mayor: Following the Secretary of State’s decision in 2021 to refuse planning permission for 8 Albert Embankment, London Fire Brigade (LFB) has been taking time to learn from this decision and consider the available options. LFB remains in positive discussions with the developer U+I and hopes to begin working on new plans soon. LFB has published a decision document which sets out the steps being taken on the site's development. Further information can be found on the LFB website here: https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/about-us/services-and-facilities/8-albert-embankment-development/
The timings on the project are dependent on ongoing commercial negotiations and are subject to change. As of October 2022, LFB do not expect a planning application on 8 Albert Embankment to be made before July 2023 and engagement will take place with local stakeholders and community members before any planning application is submitted

Londoners and Happiness

Onkar Sahota: Ealing Hospital volunteer Beryl Carr has been named as one of the 50 happiest Britons on The Independent newspaper’s Happy List. Aged 100, she is the NHS’s oldest volunteer. A couple who have fostered more than 250 vulnerable children and a man who donated his house to Ukrainian refugees are also on the list. Beryl Carr credits volunteering with making her happy. Would you agree that helping others can bring Londoners contentment?

The Mayor: Helping others can certainly bring Londoners contentment. London’s volunteering programmes are as popular as ever, with Team London Ambassadors volunteering 5,569 hours throughout our summer Visitor Welcome Programme alone. Recently, my team deployed 1,245 volunteers to support the city through a challenging period after the death of HM the Queen.
Volunteering enables Londoners to meet new people, make a difference in their communities, and be close to the heart of the action. This year, hundreds of Londoners volunteered at Major Events – from Recycling Rangers at Formula E to Wayfinders at the Women’s Euros. With volunteers hailing from every borough, volunteering is a way for London’s diverse communities to come together.
I would like to thank Beryl and all the other volunteers for the work they do in making London a better place to live, work and visit. Please keep up the good work and encourage others to get involved too.

Fire Engine Availability

Anne Clarke: On 12 August 2022, Fire Brigades Union assistant general secretary Andy Dark said “We’ve got fire engines sat in stations because there aren’t enough people to staff them. On one day, whilst wildfires raged, there were 40 such fire engines gathering dust at fire stations across London.” Will you publish data showing how many fire engines were available on a daily basis for 2022?

The Mayor: Fire appliances can be off-the-run for many different reasons each day. Sometimes, this off-the-run period can be very short (minutes) to several hours or even a whole shift, depending on the reason (for example, awaiting crew or restowing). The table below shows the percentage of total available time the Brigade’s 142 pumping appliances were available to respond to calls each day in 2022 (to the end of September).

The Mayor: 3675 Table.docx

Grass Fires

Anne Clarke: In August the LFB said that “Firefighters fear deliberate grass fires could spike further over summer holidays as Feltham grass fire believed to be arson”. How many deliberate grass fires have there been so far in 2022, as well as across 2020 and 2021?

The Mayor: There is no specific category for grass fires. Grass fires are included in the category "Grassland, woodland and crops" but also sometimes get categorised as "Other Outdoor" fires. In line with data provided in response to question2022/3206(September 2022), the table below sets out the number of fires of deliberate motive for 2020, 2021 and 2022 (to end of September).
Deliberate fires – 2020, 2021 and 2022 (to end of September)

The Mayor: 3672 Table.docx

Disposable BBQs

Anne Clarke: London’s Fire Commissioner has called for a total ban on disposable barbecues. Do you agree with him? If so, what steps have you taken to work with stakeholders to bring this ban into effect?

The Mayor: I agreed with the London Fire Commissioner (LFC) in his call for a ban of disposable barbecues over the summer when London Fire Brigade (LFB) came under significant pressure due to the wildfires caused by the extreme weather.
In very dry conditions like those seen over the summer, every disposable barbeque presents a potential fire risk, even hours after use, which is why the Brigade called for a ban.
When facing those types of conditions, it is important that everybody plays their part to keep each other safe and follows the Brigade’s advice on preventing grass fires.The Brigade was active in its safety messaging to Londoners to dispose of litter responsibly, put out cigarettes properly, not use disposable barbecues and to avoid barbecues in open spaces or on balconies.These efforts were very effective, and I was pleased to see many major retailers stopped selling disposable barbeques during that period.

Newham Safety Centre

Anne Clarke: What plans, if any, does the LFB have to introduce other safety centres across London?

The Mayor: The Newham Safety Centre is a collaboration between all three blue light emergency services under the “London Safety Centre” project funded by the Metropolitan Police Service’s innovation fund. It aims to provide a centralised collaboration on key preventative activities.
No decision has yet been made on whether there will be further attempts to promote safety advice in this way in other locations as there will need to be an evaluation and lessons learned from this initial approach. The centre is funded until end of this financial year. If, on evaluation, further joint emergency services centres are considered useful then these would require new funding and management arrangements

Accessibility Officer

Sakina Sheikh: Does the GLA have an Accessibility Officer in the Planning Team? If not, will you consider hiring one to ensure those with accessibility needs are not forgotten in planning applications?

The Mayor: The Planning team includes officers who lead on London Plan policies relating to accessibility, and who can advise on accessibility, equality and inclusion in relation to masterplans, referable applications, and strategy and policy development. This includes a specific officer who specialises in accessibility, leading on work to update existing guidance relating to accessibility, equality and inclusion. This officer also works closely with the GLA Disability Forum to ensure lived experience of disability is embedded in this work.
Accessibility is a cross cutting theme that is considered by all officers. All officers are required to consider the Public Sector Equality Duty, which includes accessibility needs and equality impacts of planning decisions. There is also an internal officer group from across GLA directorates with an interest in accessibility and inclusive design to share and develop best practice.
In addition to internal capacity, the latest cohort of Mayoral Design Advocates, who support the GLA’s work by advising on referable planning applications through the London Review Panel, include three registered access consultants.

Hammersmith Bridge (2)

Tony Devenish: Will you ask the Deputy Mayor for Transport to meet with the new Secretary of State for Transport as soon as possible to ensure that you and the Government are working together to ensure Hammersmith & Fulham Council do not try to escape their responsibility for fully restoring Hammersmith Bridge?

The Mayor: As I set out in my response to Mayor’s Question 2022/2801, the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham (LBHF), Transport for London (TfL) and Department for Transport (DfT) officials meet on a regular basis to progress plans to resolve the ongoing situation at Hammersmith Bridge. I do not consider that LBHF is currently trying to escape its responsibilities and, given that officers from LBHF, TfL and DfT are already working positively together, I don’t currently see a requirement for the Deputy Mayor for Transport to further lobby the new Secretary of State on this matter.

Radicalisation

Unmesh Desai: How is the MPS working with prison authorities to prevent radicalisation in prisons?

The Mayor: His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) have the lead responsibility within the secure estate for preventing individuals from being drawn into terrorism.
In London, SO15’s Prison Intelligence Unit and Counter Terrorism Nominal Management team work closely with their HMPPS counterparts to support and manage prisoners’ extremism risk within the secure estate, especially through Pathfinder, MAPPA and other pre-release processes. These functions are carried out under national oversight through the Joint Extremism Unit (JEXU) and the Joint Counter Terrorism Prison and Probation Hub (JCTPPH).

London Power (1)

Tony Devenish: The Leader of the Opposition has said that if elected, within the first year, a stand-alone energy company would be set up. You have since endorsed this policy. Can you articulate why you support this proposal and how you see it impacting positively on London?

The Mayor: The Leader of the Opposition has stated his intention to set up a new stand-alone energy company called Great British Energy (GBE). GBE would not be an energy supply company like London Power, but rather a company that would invest in new renewable generation. Such an approach would contribute towards my London 2030 net zero target by accelerating the decarbonisation of the electricity grid and allowing a faster transition to decarbonising heat through heat pumps.
As a government backed company, GBE would be able to invest in projects that the market might avoid, such as very large scale projects or new, innovative technologies. The government’s lower financing costs and the absence of a need to pay dividends to shareholders could also reduce the costs of renewable energy.
Overall, accelerating renewable generation is the most sustainable way to lessen our dependence on fossil fuels, increase energy security and reduce costs for households.

Protecting Trees

Tony Devenish: What actions are you taking to ensure trees are protected across London and specifically within my constituency to maximise their environmental benefits and crackdown on damaging pruning from tree surgeons?

The Mayor: Please see my response to MQ 2022/3568

London Power (3)

Tony Devenish: Please provide an update on the current number of customers with London Power. How will London Power break even when the recommendation on their own website outlines that Londoners should continue with their current energy supplier?

The Mayor: London Power’s last published Quarterly Report stated 6,463 customers as of 31 March 2022. Customer acquisition has remained static since April given extremely volatile and high energy wholesale prices leading to all energy suppliers advising customers not to switch. The Government’s recent Energy Price Guarantee of average bills of £2,500 for two years implies that customer acquisition will remain flat across the industry for some time.
Please also see my response to MQ 2022/3545.

London Power (2)

Tony Devenish: At the end of 2021, London Power only had 6423 customers and it is still unknown when the company will break even. What lessons have you learnt from this venture and what do you think should be done differently if the GB Energy proposal you have recently endorsed is set up? How do you think it would contribute to your target to make London net-zero by 2050?

The Mayor: As per my response to MQ 2022/3571, Great British Energy would be a generation company rather than a company supplying customers. My target to make London net zero by 2030 requires rapid decarbonisation of the UK power grid and Great British Energy has the potential to accelerate this transition.
Regarding customer supply, the energy market has fundamentally changed from when I first developed London Power to offer fairer, greener energy for Londoners and to encourage more Londoners to switch supplier. Current market conditions with high prices have led to customers being advised not to switch.
On break-even, please also see my response to MQ 2022/3545.

Hammersmith Bridge (1)

Tony Devenish: Will you update the Assembly on plans and the proposed timetable for a full restoration of Hammersmith Bridge?

The Mayor: Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2022/2801.

Living Wage Update

Shaun Bailey: How many employers and employees have signed up to the London Living Wage since you became Mayor? Please give a breakdown by sector.

The Mayor: The number of London Living Wage employers has more than quadrupled since 2016. According to the Living Wage Foundation, there are now over 3,000 accredited employers headquartered in London. Over 140,000 Londoners receive a payrise each year when the new rate is announced.
2,296 employers have accredited since I was elected in 2016. Of these 116 are public sector employers, 1,525 are private sector and 649 are third sector (two are unclassified).

Black History Month 2022

Marina Ahmad: How are you celebrating Black History Month this year, and how are you supporting Londoners, businesses and public institutions to commemorate Black History Month?

The Mayor: Marking the 35th anniversary of Black History Month, I hosted a reception at City Hall to pay tribute to the significant contribution London’s Black communities have made to our city and emphasise the theme ‘Time for change: Action not words’. The event brought together members of grassroots organisations, community leaders and youth groups and showcased an exhibition of London winners of the 40x40: Black Cultural Archives Chair’s Awards.
Celebrating the achievements of Black Londoners throughout the year, not just in Black History Month, I have announced a new partnership with the Black Cultural Archives, where around 100 young Black leaders will benefit from masterclasses to help develop their futures. These masterclasses will not only recognise these talented leaders but encourage young people to follow in their footsteps.
Black History will always be London’s history, and in support of this, my Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm has funded 19 Black history walks, talks and activities across the capital to help Londoners learn more about our history as part of London Unseen. This programme is running between July-November, with five of the events taking place during October as part of Black History Month.

Food insecurity (1)

Marina Ahmad: How many children in London will be at risk of food insecurity by the end of 2022?

The Mayor: Data are not available to say exactly how many children will be at risk of food insecurity by the end of 2022. However, we know that prior to the pandemic around 400,000 children had low or very low food security. More recently the Survey of Londoners 2021/22 found that around one in seven parents in London (14 per cent) had children living in low or very low food security. This percentage rises to 26 percent amongst single parent households.
Given the inflationary pressures since then, the number of children at risk is likely to have grown substantially. The GLA’s most recent Cost of Living polling from last month found that 46 percent of households with children under 18 were buying less food and essentials, compared to 32 percent of households with no children under 18.

Government mini budget 2022

Marina Ahmad: What does the Government’s mini-budget announced on 23 September 2022 mean for London’s economy?

The Mayor: Prior to the mini-Budget the latest assessment from GLA Economics was that London’s economy would continue growing over the next year.
The mini-Budget is inflationary. The announced tax cuts increase government debt, and so demand when the economy is at near capacity. In response, it is likely that the Bank of England will increase interest rates.
There has been volatility in financial markets with significant fluctuations in both the exchange rate and gilt yields.
The personal tax measures will be of more benefit to London and the South East because incomes are disproportionately higher. That said, the measures are regressive benefiting high income households more than low income households.
The full effects of the mini-Budget are unclear as there is still movement in Government policy and there will be a Budget later this year.

Free School Meals for primary school children

Marina Ahmad: What response have you received from the Government to your calls to provide free school meals to all primary school children?

The Mayor: The cost-of-living crisis is deepening as prices continue to rise for food, heating, rent and mortgages. I was heartbroken to read a recent report of a child in Lewisham pretending to eat from an empty lunchbox because they did not qualify for free school meals and did not want their friends to know there was no food at home.
I have joined the many headteachers, food banks and children’s charities in calling for the government to introduce universal free school meals. Yet the government has not responded and is still dragging their feet on the issue whilst children across England go hungry. The government must step up and immediately introduce universal free school meals for all primary school children.

London Olympics (2)

Neil Garratt: In response to question 2022/3014, you stated "a piece of work has been commissioned to look at the initial feasibility of a future Olympics bid. A key part the current work is to look at the existing venues to understand if these could be reused for a future Olympics and Paralympics."
The work needs to be more comprehensive than simply looking at what can be done with the existing buildings; it needs to consider all the needs of an Olympic Games which by 2036 will be different from 2012. What are you doing beyond reviewing the existing buildings?

The Mayor: As noted in question MQ 2022/3015, bidding for the world’s largest sporting events is a significant task and we are at the very start of that journey. I do not underestimate the work that is required to make this ambition a reality. Understanding how London’s existing venues could be used for a future games is a critical first area for the city to understand. However, as noted in the earlier response we are also engaging with key stakeholders to understand the domestic landscape, the current Olympic requirements and how these have changed since 2012 along with the potential international interest in future editions.
Bidding for an event of this scale requires national and international support across government and the sporting landscape, we want to ensure we work with all the partners in a collaborative way and so once concluded, we will be writing to government to share our learnings.

Energy cost support for businesses

Marina Ahmad: Does the Government’s announcement of a cap to businesses’ energy and gas costs go far enough to support organisations in London this winter?

The Mayor: The package announced by the Government doesn’t go far enough for businesses who need it most. While measures to protect businesses were a relief, they arrived too late for some who had already started making difficult decisions to close or reduce staff. London’s hard pressed SMEs need energy prices capped, like households, for two years; not just the 6 months’ support offered.
I am engaging with businesses and industry bodies to better understand the support required. I have already called on the Government to immediately freeze business energy prices for up to two years, increase small business rates relief and decrease business VAT rates to help support businesses through the current crises.
Any short-term support must also be complimented by long-term, sustained action to accelerate the retrofit of the UK’s ageing building infrastructure and switch UK energy supply to clean energy; away from volatile fossil fuel energy markets.

Energy Advice London (3)

Neil Garratt: The Energy Saving Trust already meets the aims of Energy Advice London by providing “advice on saving energy and keeping warm at home, on installing renewable energy systems at home, and information about financial support to make their homes more energy efficient”. Therefore how will the GLA spending £790,000 of tax payer money add to this already brilliant service?

The Mayor: The Energy Saving Trust (EST) will be running Energy Advice London for Londoners a new service which will directly address the needs and concerns of Londoners by providing additional bespoke capacity for London given the massive increase in requests for advice. My own Warmer Homes Advice Service has seen an increase in demand of over 100% in some cases. It will provide vital referrals into local services and support structures, not available through the generic EST service. Using a bespoke website, supported by phone and e-mail from a newly established dedicated team, Londoners will be expertly guided through topics such as managing their bills and helping them make their homes more energy efficient.
In providing this additional support, specifically targeted for London, this new service will also provide bespoke for support Londoners in accessing London-only services such as my Warmer Homes programme, as well as linking closely with the Warmer Homes Advice Service, from where home visits can be arranged, connecting Londoners with vital aid in these difficult times.

Obesity (1)

Krupesh Hirani: Will you join me in reiterating yours and City Hall’s support for policies that promote healthy eating and drinking such as the Soft Drinks Industry Levy?

The Mayor: It is vital that urgent action to support the health London’s children and families continues, including creating environments that help them achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Every sector has a role to play and we must ensure that responsibility doesn’t always fall on individuals or families.
Policies such as the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL) and my advertising restrictions of unhealthy food across the TfL estate make it easier for people to avoid unhealthy food and drink and show that industry has an important role to play in tackling obesity through calorie reduction initiatives such as reformulation.
Revenue from the SDIL has been invested in programmes for school children to promote physical activity and better diets and by April 2018 more than half of manufacturers had reduced the sugar content of drinks[1]. I am also pleased that the Healthy Place, Healthy Weight mission is supporting more boroughs to extend advertising restrictions for unhealthy food to council-owned sites.
[1] Soft Drinks Industry Levy comes into effect - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Obesity (2)

Krupesh Hirani: Obesity and concomitant non communicable disease is estimated to cost the NHS over £6 billion; this is set to rise to £9.7 billion by 2050. How important is it that the Government supports preventative, public health led policies both to improve the nations’ health and so in turn reduce pressure on the NHS in London?

The Mayor: Government support for public health led policies focused on prevention and reducing inequalities is essential to limit the burden on health and care services from unhealthy diets and inactivity. I am disappointed, the government has delayed implementing its own evidence-based Obesity Strategy and has ignored important recommendations in the National Food Strategy. Unhealthy diets are often driven by poverty and financial insecurity, with the poorest affected most by both the causes and the consequences. Delaying the implementation of policies that limit the promotion of unhealthy foods, ban unhealthy adverts targeting children, and help people make healthier choices at the check-out will increase the burden of ill-health among the poorest.
Whilst London is taking action through our ‘Healthy Place, Healthy Weight’ recovery mission and our ambitious ‘Healthy living’ target on physical activity, government action is needed to tackle these other harmful influences on eating habits and help make nutritious food more affordable for families.

Energy Advice London (4)

Neil Garratt: What energy savings measures have you implemented as Mayor since 2016 across all buildings that the GLA is responsible for?

The Mayor: In order to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies, I have set a target for London to become net-zero carbon by 2030. Saving energy on the GLA estate will be critical to this. I have also worked with the GLA Group to deliver energy-efficiency measures across their estates, as I outlined in Mayor’s Question 2022/0983 and 2022/0984.
Since 2016 I have delivered several energy efficiency measures within the GLA is responsible for, namely City Hall and Trafalgar Square..
City Hall was rated ‘Outstanding’ by BREEAM when first built, and has since been refurbished and made even greener. It generates its own renewable heat and power, and its modern controls minimise energy usage.
At Trafalgar Square the accessible lifts and the pumps in the fountain were replaced at the end of their lives with more energy-efficient models.

Energy Advice London (1)

Neil Garratt: Can you tell us what the cost of Energy Advice London will be if the risk of global energy prices rising significantly lasts longer than a year?

The Mayor: My Energy Advice London is a much-needed service for Londoners to help them through the unprecedented cost of living crisis.
The contract with the Energy Saving Trust for the provision of the service runs to November 2023. Officers will keep under review the quality of the service provided, and how this meets the ongoing needs of Londoners.

Procurement (6)

Neil Garratt: You have been Mayor for six years. Why have suppliers not been expected to have trade union recognition agreements until now?

The Mayor: Time and again throughout my life, I’ve seen the positive difference trade unions can make on behalf of working people. Trade unions play a vital role in ensuring Londoners are treated fairly at work.
My Responsible Procurement Policy outlines the GLA Group’s commitment to seeking to contract with suppliers that are willing to enter into a Trade Union Recognition Agreement if their workers choose to seek one. My Responsible Procurement Implementation Plan (RPIP), which was recently updated and published, further outlines our expectations in this area. My team stands by to offer support to current and prospective GLA Group suppliers.
My Good Work Standard, introduced in 2019 and developed in close collaboration with trade unions, sets the benchmark for good employment practice including on union recognition and workforce dialogue. The RPIP includes a target to double the number of GLA Group Suppliers accredited to the standard.

Trees in Conservation Areas (1)

Tony Devenish: How are you working with local authorities and what further actions are you taking to ensure trees in conservation areas across London are appropriately maintained, looked after and not damaged?

The Mayor: My London Plan policy G7 Trees and woodlands ensures that developments seek to retain existing trees of value wherever possible. However, as set out in my response to MQ2022/3569, this policy cannot be applied to stand alone applications for tree works which are determined by the local council. You can find out more information about managing trees in conservation areas in the government’s guidance here.
Working collaboratively with partners is key to protecting London’s trees. The GLA is part of the London Urban Forest Partnership, and in 2020 the Partnership published the London Urban Forest Plan which sets out the goals and priority actions needed to protect, manage and expand the capital’s urban forest. This includes supporting boroughs to produce local urban forest plans.In March 2022 the GLA and partners secured nearly £500,000 from the Trees Call to Action Fund to help deliver the Plan.

Trees in Conservation Areas (2)

Tony Devenish: Can you take action with local authorities in areas where trees within conservation areas have been incorrectly pruned or damaged such as the case in Sinclair Road within my constituency?

The Mayor: My London Environment Strategy set a target to increase London’s tree canopy cover by 10 per cent by 2050 and I’ve supported the planting of nearly 430,000 trees since 2016.
However, under current legislation I do not have powers to intervene in decisions regarding the management of trees. You can find out more information about the responsibilities of owners and the local Council when managing protected trees, or mature trees in conservation areas in the government’s guidance here.
My London Plan contains some of the most far-reaching environmental planning policies in the country. This includes policy G7 Trees and woodlands which ensures that developments seek to retain existing trees of value wherever possible. However, this planning policy cannot be applied to stand alone applications for works to trees.
Queries about local authority tree pruning are best directed to borough tree officers, via the London Tree Officers Association: https://www.ltoa.org.uk/contacts/borough-contacts

Baroness Casey Review

Caroline Pidgeon: Given the recent convictions within the Metropolitan Police, what is the foreseen timeline for Baroness Casey’s independent review into the MPS culture and standards?

The Mayor: Baroness Casey started her independent review into MPS culture and standards in February 2022 and indicated that her work would take a minimum of nine to twelve months.

Hate Crime Awareness Week (2)

Caroline Pidgeon: In question 2021/4744, you referred to the new Hate Crime Risk Assessment tool of the MPS. What has been the impact of this new tool on how hate crimes are dealt with?

The Mayor: The Hate Crime Risk Assessment tool – form 124H - is an electronic tool comprising a series of mandatory questions to ask the victim and/or witness of hate crime. It delivers a structured and standardised way to record hate crime, establish exactly what has happened and identify and mitigate any risks to victims and witnesses. It also provides detailed information on the protected characteristics of the victim ensuring that officers are better able to meet their individual needs.
The impacts of the 124H include an improved initial investigation of hate crime reports, which in turn improves the chance of a positive outcome and an improved response to victims. The rolling 12-month sanction detection rate for hate crime is currently 15.6%, an improvement of 0.4% on last month’s figure. For victims, the use of the tool has seen a significant rise in referrals into the CATCH Hate Crime Victims Service, where they receive the specialist support that best meets their needs.

Moped Crimes

Caroline Pidgeon: Given the recent spike in moped crimes, what action is the Met undertaking to tackle this often aggressive and violent form of crime?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) continues to work hard to tackle moped enabled crime through a range of operations across London, and while there has been a slight increase in moped enabled crimes in recent months, overall, there has been around a 50% decline in moped enabled crime since its peak in summer 2017.
Operation Venice is the MPS’s dedicated response to moped enabled robbery and theft. Its purpose is to identify, disrupt and bring prolific offenders to justice who commit offences using mopeds, cycles, e-bikes and scooters. The officers are trained to a high standard and authorised to instigate tactical contact against those using mopeds and motorbikes to commit robbery and theft snatches.
The MPS actively monitors emerging robbery trends including moped enabled crime and recently launched a bespoke pan-London operation to tackle moped enabled robbery, where high value watches have been stolen.

Met's Estates Strategy

Tony Devenish: Will the Met Police’s Estates Strategy ever appear from the depths of your in tray or has the Loch Ness Monster eaten it?

The Mayor: An MPS Estates Strategy will be forthcoming when it has been finalised and cleared by the new Commissioner.

Warmer Homes Scheme (2)

Tony Devenish: Where has the extra £43m of funding for the Warmer Homes Scheme come from, as the previous scheme from 2018 was equivalent to £20m, and what was the combination of Mayoral and Central Government funding?

The Mayor: Please see my response to MQ 2022/3212.

Electricity Supply in West London (1)

Sakina Sheikh: What guidance is the GLA providing to local authorities with regards to the future electricity supply issues in west London?

The Mayor: My teamis continuing toregularlyreview the West London electricity capacity issues with the affected boroughs of Hillingdon, Hounslow and Ealing. This includesprovidingupdates on solutions being pursued by the electricity network operators responsible, and facilitating meetings between boroughs, SSEN, and National Grid.Wepublished an initial information pack here, to provide an overview to boroughs and developers of the issue. We are now working with the boroughs, along with SSEN and National Grid, to produce anupdate to the documentwhich will be published publicly, covering progress made and next steps. My Infrastructure Coordination Service is also available to boroughs and developers to support them on questions about particular sites.

Latest performance figures

Elly Baker: TfL publishes the latest performance figures for services operated (since 2018-19) and kilometres operated (since 2016-17) for London Underground. However, similar data is not published for buses, DLR, tram, London Overground, Elizabeth Line/TfL Rail or river boat services. Will you commit to publishing similar data, in a similar format for the other modes of travel and placing it in the Publications & Reports section of the TfL website?

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) publishes this data in its Travel in London reports in the Publications & Reports sections of its website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/publications-and-reports/travel-in-london-reports
TfL also publishes additional buses performance data on its website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/publications-and-reports/buses-performance-data
TfL does not hold performance data for river services as they are privately operated.

Digital Devices (2)

Unmesh Desai: What is the average wait time for a digital device to be examined?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) advises me that the majority of examinations are carried out by officers using the ‘Level 1 Kiosks’ and therefore it is not possible to provide data on the average wait time in these instances. In relation to the more complex cases and physically challenging devices, these are dealt with by Digital Forensics Hubs and centrally at Lambeth, where the current average wait time across all areas is 74 days.

Digital Devices (1)

Unmesh Desai: How many digital devices does the MPS have that are currently awaiting examination?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) advises me that as of the 30th September 2022, there were 906 devices within Digital Forensics awaiting examination.
With the current data collection sources available, it is not possible to detail the number of digital devices that are with Investigating Officers but have not yet been either submitted into Digital Forensics or had the data extracted from them by the officer.

Infra-Red Technology

Onkar Sahota: Ealing Council is running a pilot scheme to replace gas heating in 25 homes with infra-red technology. What is your view on how this technology reduces bills and increases energy efficiency?

The Mayor: My Net Zero pathway for London places increased energy efficiency at its centre, and also involves a substantial shift from gas central heating to electric heating to decarbonise the heating sector. I look forward to seeing the results of Ealing Council’s pilot so that I can consider how this new innovative technology can contribute to achieving net zero.

Green Home Grants (3)

Onkar Sahota: What learning has been taken from the scheme and what changes will be made to improve it going forwards?

The Mayor: As stated in my response to MQ 2022/3798, the West London Green Homes Grant is led by Ealing Council in partnership with Warmworks and enquiries should be directed to Ealing Council. The Warm Front grant is a UK wide scheme offering a one-off £5,000 grant from Government to help replace less efficient gas boilers from April 2022. Enquiries about the scheme should be directed to Warm Front Ltd, who are administering the scheme.

Tasers (2)

Unmesh Desai: Does the MPS have plans to train more officers in the use of tasers?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) continuously reviews its Taser requirements.
There is ongoing training to ensure the MPS maintains the taser capability it needs. Currently it anticipates an operational need of around 10,000 Taser trained officers.

Tasers (1)

Unmesh Desai: How many Met police officers are trained in the use of a taser?

The Mayor: As of September 2022 the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has approximately 9,300 officers that are Taser trained.

Police Complaints (1)

Unmesh Desai: Since early 2020, following the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime Decision PCD 626, MOPAC has been the relevant review body for public complaints concerning the Met. Can you explain the decision to opt for the chosen model of service delivery?

The Mayor: The Policing and Crime Act 2017 (the Act) included several provisions which changed the way that police complaints and disciplinary systems operate. The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) fully supported the complaint reforms and the need to improve public confidence in the police complaints process.
There were three models MOPAC could adopt to enhance the independence and transparency of the police complaints system. I chose Model One, which allows me oversight of complaints and to become the review body for force appeals previously managed by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). Model 1 was also chosen by the majority of Police and Crime Commissioners across the country, with a number using a third party supplier to carry out reviews.
Given the volume of complaints received by the MPS, taking-on the responsibility for the recording and ‘triaging’ of allegations (as required by Models Two and Three) would require a major increase in the number of employees working in MOPAC. I did not consider it appropriate or proportionate for MOPAC to take on these responsibilities.
MOPAC has regular oversight of the MPS handling of complaints through monthly performance discussions. Complaints data also forms part of the quarterly monitoring at Performance and Risk Oversight Board. My Deputy Mayor also meets regularly with the Assistant Commissioner Professionalism whose portfolio deals with public complaints.

London Olympics (1)

Neil Garratt: In response to question 2022/3015 you stated, "At this time, our engagement is with the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, who have been tasked as part of the government’s levelling up white paper published earlier this year to look at the feasibility of a future Olympic and Paralympic bid."
How many meetings have you had with the Government on a potential bid and over what period?

The Mayor: My team and GLA officers meet monthly with representatives from government to discuss a variety of current and future events. We wrote to all key stakeholders regarding the project to request their input into the work. Discussions have taken place at our regular meetings, and we have also held a specific meeting with them to discuss this work. The aim of the meeting was to understand more about the government’s position on a future bid and their plans for any future feasibility work. This meeting took place last month. As noted in the response to question MQ 2022/3488 we are keen to collaborate with national government on their work in this area and so once concluded, we will be writing to government to share our learnings.

Supporting Accessibility Officer in Boroughs

Sakina Sheikh: What support can the GLA give to ensure Boroughs have an Accessibility Officer in their Planning Team?

The Mayor: The GLA works with borough officers to support London Plan policy implementation on accessibility and equality issues. Officers are updating the London Plan Guidance Accessible London to accord with the current London Plan 2021 and to support London Plan policy implementation. This updated guidance will be an important resource for London boroughs, and input and collaboration with boroughs, as part of this work, will be key. In the meantime, the existing guidance still provides valuable advice on this important issue.
Currently support is also available via the London Review Panel (populated by Mayor’s Design Advocates), providing design review expertise on accessibility and equalities and advising on referable planning applications. The latest cohort of Mayoral Design Advocates includes three registered access consultants. This resource is particularly important to the six boroughs that do not have a Design Review Panel.
Boroughs are required to consider the Public Sector Equality Duty as part of their work, considering accessibility needs and equality impacts from planning decisions.

Accessibility Officer in Boroughs

Sakina Sheikh: Do you know how many councils across London have an Accessibility Officer in their Planning Team?

The Mayor: The GLA does not currently hold data on how many London boroughs have Accessibility specialists in their Planning teams. Staff are currently undertaking the biannual Placeshaping Capacity survey, which tracks local authority capacity and for the first time will measure inclusive and accessible design specialisms. The findings will be shared via the London.gov.uk website before the end of December.
I am aware, through local authority engagement, that there has been a general decline in this important resource. Resourcing this function has been an issue for many London boroughs due to austerity constraints. Access and inclusion are central values of the Good Growth agenda and I am committed to prioritising accessibility in the built environment and supporting boroughs in doing so through, for example, new guidance and the inclusion of accessibility specialists in the current cohort of Mayoral Design Advocates.

Creative Enterprise Zones Fund

Marina Ahmad: How many businesses do you anticipate supporting with your £1.2m fund to support creative workspaces and cultural infrastructure to become more sustainable in Creative Enterprise Zones?

The Mayor: I havepledged £1.2m funding to enable workspaces in London’s Creative Enterprise Zones to become greener and more sustainable, at a time when small creative businesses and organisations are struggling with the pressure of rising energy bills.
Local authorities will work with local partners to develop proposals for capital projects of up to £200,000 each. Successful applications will need to demonstrate impact and delivery against outputs including the number of small to medium size enterprises benefitting from improved environmental efficiency, as well as the number of creative businesses engaged with environmental issues. The deadline for applications is 7 November and a figure for the number of creative businesses supported will be available after contracts are in place.

999 response times (1)

Caroline Pidgeon: Please provide the average Metropolitan Police response times for 999 calls categorised as i) I grade, ii) S grade iii) E grade and iv) R grade from August 2021 to August 2022. Please provide a breakdown by i) month, and ii) borough.

The Mayor: Please refer to the attached spreadsheet provided by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) for calls responded to across the MPS during the period August ‘21 - August ‘22 extracted on the 4th October.
Please ensure the notes page is read in conjunction with the information to aid in interpretation.

The Mayor: 3397_excel (1).xlsx

Hate Crime Awareness Week (1)

Caroline Pidgeon: In light of Hate Crime Awareness Week, please provide a breakdown of hate crime incidents in the last year broken down by i) month and ii) type of hate crime.

The Mayor: The information you have requested is published by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) both on the Met Crime Dashboard – https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/metropolitan.police.service/viz/MonthlyCrimeDataNewCats/Coversheet and on London DataStore - https://data.london.gov.uk/dataset/mps-hate-crime-or-special-crime-dashboard-data .
The attached table details the requested information available from these sources.

The Mayor: MQ 22-3399 - Appendix.pdf

999 response times (2)

Caroline Pidgeon: On 20th August 2022, please provide the average waiting time for incoming calls to 999 to be responded to in Southwark.

The Mayor: The Met Contact Centre (MetCC) operates as one virtual contact centre across three sites. Due to the way in which calls are received and processed within MetCC, it is not possible to differentiate between wait times experienced by different London boroughs on a given date.

Wellbeing Champions - Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

Hina Bokhari: How will you engage with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities to ensure that they are represented among London’s “wellbeing champions”?

The Mayor: The Mayor, Thrive LDN and partners have led the way in creating new resources and innovative ways to engage Londoners through the Mental Health and Wellbeing Recovery Mission. ​ Through community engagement we are working to map out and identify any groups and areas across London that are not yet represented, and this will help inform a range of activity and support services that are more reflective of our diverse communities.
We will continue to support Londoners to access culturally competent training and resources to develop their resilience, skills and knowledge, as many have done already by becoming Youth Mental Health First Aiders or taking the #ZeroSuicideLDN suicide prevention training.
The Mayoral funded Right to Thrive programme is a key part of the mission delivery. Grants are awarded to community and grassroots projects, helping support the mental health and wellbeing of Londoners who experience higher levels of unfair treatment and discrimination such as those from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.

Suicide Prevention - Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

Hina Bokhari: What steps are you taking to ensure suicide prevention programmes, as part of the overall Health Inequalities Strategy, will effectively engage Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities?

The Mayor: As part of my Health Inequalities Strategy, City Hall is taking a prevention-focused approach towards improving the public’s mental health, and through the Thrive LDN partnership we’re working to engage a number of communities in London.
Thrive LDN has an extensive suicide prevention programme, which makes them best placed to lead this work regionally. They have been attending London Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Forum events and meeting with organisations such as the Traveller Movement they have been able to promote the #ZeroSuicideLDN campaign and explore how the free online suicide prevention training can be adapted for those communities.
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are often under-represented through data collection, leading to services being designed without them in mind. One of the ways Thrive LDN is working to change this is by encouraging the adoption of more inclusive ethnic categories in suspected suicide reporting. This includes an academic evaluation of mechanisms used to report suspected suicides in London.
Additionally, Thrive LDN has commissioned an evaluation of London’s suicide bereavement services to help identify disparities in access to support, and inform future service development.

London Challenge Poverty Week 2022

Marina Ahmad: How are you supporting London Challenge Poverty Week on 17-23 October 2022?

The Mayor: I am proud to be supporting London Challenge Poverty Week again this year, and to showcase the great work that so many organisations are doing for Londoners.
I am very pleased that my Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice is attending the London Child Poverty Summit where she will provide the opening address.
London Challenge Poverty Week comes at a particularly difficult time for Londoners as many people face the autumn and winter unsure of how they will make ends meet. London Challenge Poverty Week is an opportunity for a wide range of partners to come together to find new ways to support Londoners experiencing financial hardship and to call for the changes we need to see made by government.

Health Inequalities Strategy – Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

Hina Bokhari: What steps are you taking to ensure that the needs of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are embedded in the Health Inequalities Strategy?

The Mayor: Gypsy, Roma and Traveller(GRT)communities face some of the most severe health inequalities amongst the UK population,when compared with other socially deprived or excluded groups or with other ethnic minorities.
My Health Inequalities Strategy (HIS) and recent Implementation Planseek to address the needs of all communities in London,but with supportfocussed proportionallyonthose communities who could most benefit– such as London’s GRT communities.
For example, I know that housing is an important determinant of health, which is why– as part of my approach to housingpolicy– theHIS Plan includes a commitment to lead a city-wide assessment of the accommodation needs of all Gypsies and Travellers. In addition to this, my affordable homes programme provides support for better provision of suitable accommodation, which could also benefit these communities.
I’m also aware that access to mental healthsupportis a challenge for GRT communities, which is whyI continue to fund Thrive LDN’s Right to Thrive programme. The grants aimed at boosting community and grassroots projects across London that help support the mental health and wellbeing of individuals and groupsexperiencing higher levels of unfair treatment and discrimination, such as GRT communities.
Finally, I’m also looking at ways to help addressissues around accesstohealth services–such as immunisation– through the work of mycommunity engagement team, whichholds regular monthly meetings with GRT sector organisationsto better understand the barriersand what matters most.

Women’s services – equal access for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (2)

Hina Bokhari: What steps are you taking to ensure that women with literacy or digital literacy issues can access women's services?

The Mayor: I am committed to ensuring that all Womens services are as accessible as possible. MOPAC’s VAWG commissioning approach is that services are to be accessible across their client groups. They ensure that outreach is a key component so that groups that are underserved such as women with (digital) literacy issues, are able to access what is often life-saving support
I also recently launched 2 initiatives which support Digital Inclusion and access to adult learning opportunities.
Get Online London is London’s first Digital Inclusion service offering Londoners access to refurbished devices, free mobile connectivity and the digital skills they may need to get online.
Under the Skills for Londoners Community Outreach Programme small grants of up to £9,000 will be available for community groups to support outreach activity that targets Londoners most in need of adult education and refer them on to adult learning opportunities including literacy and digital skills.

Regulations in the hospitality sector and climate change

Sem Moema: Is regulation of the hospitality sector in London at the right level to ensure that climate change and sustainability are priorities for the sector?

The Mayor: Please refer to my answer to MQ 2022/3368.

Violence against Women and Girls - Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

Hina Bokhari: What steps are you taking to establish or support outreach strategies to Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in respect of Violence against Women and Girls?

The Mayor: The Mayor has invested £3m though his Violence Against Women and Girls Grassroots Fund since 2021. The fund provides support and grants to smaller specialist organisations operating across London’s diverse communities so they can better meet the needs of victims and survivors of VAWG. This includes funding for services, and provision of training and capacity building support. The fund was co-produced with the specialist VAWG sector themselves. Within the evidence base for the fund gaps in provision, including those for women and girls from the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities were identified. A range of specialist services have subsequently been awarded funding, including The Traveller Movement who provide support to women with culturally competent domestic abuse services and have produced a resource toolkit for addressing domestic abuse in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.

Training courses

Susan Hall: What were the top ten most attended training courses within the Met from October 2021 to September 2022 for police officers, how many police officers attended these courses, what was the length of time taken to attend each course and how much was spent on each course?

The Mayor: The table below shows the ten most attended training courses between October 21 to September 2022. The length of the course and how many officers attended is also shown.
It is not possible for the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) to provide an exact cost for each course because of the complexity of factors involved. Costs will include trainers that deliver courses; abstraction of officers from their usual duties to complete training; and cost of resources and other training ancillaries.
Course
Course Length
No. of Officers attended
Total training hours
1.
Personal and Public Safety - Annual Refresher - Phase 2
6 hours
22,475
134,850
2.
Personal and Public Safety – Annual Refresher - Phase 1
6 hours
17,466
106,362
3.
Public Order - Level 2
12 hours
3,413
40,956
4.
Public Order - Level 3
6 hours
2,487
14,922
5.
D13.1 Plus Ballistic First Aid – Refresher (specialised first aid for firearms officers)
8 hours
2,440
24,638
6.
Public Order - Level 1 (Territorial Support Group)
5 hours
1,660
8,300
7.
HSE NEBOSH Health & Safety Leadership Excellence
6 hours
1,163
7,194
8.
Evidential Review Officer (ERO) Case Paper Supervision (supports officers in reviewing casefiles for charge and submission to CPS)
12 hours
1,041
12,586
9.
Personal and Public Safety – Defensive
2 hours
819
4,195
10.
Personal and Public Safety Refresher – Standalone
4 hours
772
3,088

Top ten common forms

Susan Hall: What are the top ten common forms (paper and digital) that have to be completed by front line Met police officers e.g. use of force? What is the number of times each form was completed in October 2021 to September 2022? What is the average time it takes to complete each form?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) does not track the volume of completion of all forms so cannot compile a ‘top ten’.
However, the most commonly collected data and therefore ‘forms’ (which are, where possible, electronic) are listed below:

Enfield Workers and the Living Wage

Joanne McCartney: According to the Living Wage foundation one third of jobs (27,000) in Enfield pay less than the London Living Wage. What more can you do to encourage Enfield's employers to pay the London Living Wage?

The Mayor: In Enfield, 24 employers have accredited since 2016, including the local authority.
However, there is more to do. I call on all employers in Enfield to guarantee at least the London Living Wage rate for all workers and to seek accreditation from the Living Wage Foundation. The real London Living Wage is the only rate that reflects the true cost of living in our city. Those that have already committed can go further by encouraging their peers and competitors to do the same, and by gaining my Good Work Standard accreditation.
The Making London a Living Wage City Programme (MLLWC), which I co-chair, will include focused action in specific locations, through Living Wage Places and other campaigns. This activity is led by London Citizens, other community groups, employers, anchor institutions and local authorities. I look forward to announcing more detail on the MLLWC Action Plan during Living Wage Week in November, and working with employers and workers in Enfield to increase uptake locally.

Green Home Grants (2)

Onkar Sahota: What feedback have you had on works carried out as part of the Warm Front and Warm Works grant funding?

The Mayor: As stated in my response MQ 2022/3798, the West London Green Homes Grant is led by Ealing Council in partnership with Warmworks and enquiries should be directed to Ealing Council. The Warm Front grant is a UK wide scheme offering a one-off £5,000 grant from Government to help replace less efficient gas boilers from April 2022. Enquiries about the scheme should be directed to Warm Front Ltd, who are administering the scheme.

Bereavement Support Services for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

Hina Bokhari: What steps are you taking to ensure bereavement support services are sufficiently accessible to, and tailored to the cultural needs of different communities like the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities?

The Mayor: I commission Thrive LDN to provide me with regular updates on the state of Londoners’ mental health and wellbeing from a number of sources, including research, stakeholder engagement and community participation activities. This information not only helps me understand the impact of bereavement, isolation and anxiety on Londoners from different cultural communities, it also informs the work I do with partners to address these issues, specifically through London’s Bereavement Support Programme and my Recovery Missions.
Thrive LDN has been attending London’s Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) Forum events in order to gather community insights and learn about current issues relating to their mental health needs.
To that end, we’ve commissioned an evaluation of London’s suicide bereavement services to help identify disparities in access to support and inform future service development to be more inclusive.
I’ve also commissioned Good Thinking, a digital wellbeing service, to include culturally competent bereavement support for the six major world religions, as well as a general guide for practitioners on providing culturally sensitive bereavement support.
I believe that through this work we can help GRT communities feel that mental health services are within their reach.

Impersonating a police officer

Susan Hall: For each year Oct 2019 to Sep 2020, Oct 2020 to Sep 2021 and Oct 2021 to Sep 2022, how many reports of impersonating a police officer have been made in London?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have provided the attached information which details the figures for the requested time periods. The data presents the figures for:
Please ensure the notes page is read in conjunction with the information to aid in interpretation.

The Mayor: 3550_Impersonating a Police Officer (1).xlsx

Islington Floods

Sem Moema: Problematic Thames Water-managed infrastructure has resulted in flooding throughout Islington. Will you consider making representations to Thames Water to invest in preventing leaks and problematic infrastructure? Elected representatives, residents, businesses, and other organisations in Islington are expecting firm actions from Thames Water to prevent future floods.

The Mayor: London’s water supply has experienced years of underinvestment. My Deputy Mayor and I have repeatedly raised the need for more infrastructure investment, and to improve Thames Water poor performance following the pipe burst in Islington meeting both with the Ofwat Chair and Thames Water Chief Executive.
Our intervention was instrumental in Ofwat granting a conditional allowance in the last price review (2019). This included £300 million from Thames Water shareholders, ringfenced for London. More recently, Thames Water announced a further £0.5 billion equity and £1 billion from shareholders, which will gradually help to tackle London’s infrastructure problems.
Following the summer flooding in 2021, I convened a roundtable on surface water flooding. Partners are now working towards the delivery of a strategic, London-wide plan. Thames Water also published an independent review and an internal review of the operational and incident response to the events. The GLA will continue to hold Thames Water to account for action on the recommendations in the reports.

Thames Barrier (3)

Leonie Cooper: What plans are in place to ensure that London has adequate flood protection from 2030-2070, when the new Barrier is anticipated to be in place?

The Mayor: The Thames Estuary 2100 Plan sets out work within the plan in 3 phases. The next phase is Phase 1b delivered from 2023 to 2035. This includes working with communities to develop visions for their future riversides, plan for defence raising and securing land needed for future improvements to flood defences. Phase 3 from 2050 to 2100 includes raising existing flood walls, embankments and smaller barriers, reshape the riverside through development, to improve flood defences, create habitat and improve access to the river and determine the preferred option for the future Thames Barrier. As this is an adaptive plan, monitoring will continue throughout.
The Thames Barrier will continue to protect London to its current standard up until 2070. The plan identifies different options for then either improving or replacing the Thames Barrier. I helped the Environment Agency safeguard land for a potential new barrier at Purfleet.
Because it is an adaptive plan, the Environment Agency and partners who deliver the plan will decide on the final option by 2040.

Neighbourhood Planning Designations

Sakina Sheikh: If a neighbourhood forum has its application for a designation turned down, what support could the GLA offer them for reapplication?
ONS, ‘GDP monthly estimate, UK : July 2022,’ 12 September 2022↩︎


Bank of England, ‘Monetary Policy Report - August 2022’ 4 August 2022↩︎

The Mayor: The designation of a “qualifying body” and a “neighbourhood area” for neighbourhood planning is governed by relevant legislation which does not include a role for the Mayor.
Any group who has been unsuccessful in their application to take up these powers should firstly engage with the local planning authority to resolve challenges or concerns. They could also seek advice from Locality, the national network supporting community organisations, or an umbrella neighbourhood planning group which shares local experience and advice.

Frequency of the N155 Bus Service

Marina Ahmad: What steps will you take to encourage Transport for London (TfL) services to refrain from reducing the frequency of the N155 bus service? The N155 bus service is important to my constituents as it provides safe transportation and access to local hospitals and entertainment venues at night when there is a shortage of transport options.

The Mayor: Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2022/2831.

Water Efficiency and the GLA Group (1)

Leonie Cooper: How many GLA group buildings have greywater recycling in place? How much water is recycled through these measures? Please provide a year by year, building by building breakdown.

The Mayor: Data on greywater recycling across GLA group buildings is not systematically collected at present. However, the GLA group is taking action to capture and use water more efficiently across buildings and assets through measures including greywater recycling. Beneath City Hall, there is a 60,000-litre rainwater harvesting tank providing an alternative supply to serve irrigation and toilet-flushing, contributing to 50% reduction of potable consumption. The Met Police have five sites with greywater recycling technology installed - Croydon Borough Custody Centre, Brixton Police Station, Waltham Forest Custody Unit, Alperton Patrol Base and Peel Centre - Peel House – however, water recycled is not currently measured. LLDC have 3 buildings with greywater recycling and 2 buildings with rainwater recycling systems in place. TfL collects rainwater at several sites, including West Ham Bus Garage, and recycles rainwater at the Palestra (4m litres per annum), Pier Walk (1.5m), and Endeavour Square (1.3m).

Code for Sustainable Homes (2)

Leonie Cooper: How many of the properties completed since the Code for Sustainable Homes was scrapped will require retrofitting, to achieve high standards of energy efficiency?

The Mayor: The Government scrapped the Code for Sustainable Homes and the national net zero carbon homes standard in 2015 but this did not reduce standards in London. The London Plan’s net zero carbon standard for homes was introduced in October 2016 (and extended to all major developments in March 2021), ensuring that the need for future retrofitting is minimised compared to only meeting national building regulations.

Carbon Budgeting

Leonie Cooper: Can you update on progress on developing carbon budgeting for the GLA group budget?

The Mayor: Officers in the GLA, TfL, LFC, MOPAC, LLDC and OPDC formally commenced developing their inputs into the London Climate Budget when the Mayor’s Budget Guidance 2023-24 was published on 29 July 2022.
My Budget Guidance requires each member of the GLA Group to include their London Climate Budget input within their overall 2023-24 budget submissions, due on 25 November 2022.

Awareness Raising around Water Efficiency (1)

Leonie Cooper: Given the current drought measures the city is under, what messages would you like to share with Londoners on how to reduce water use?

The Mayor: Despite recent rainfall, water levels in London’s rivers, groundwater and reservoirs are still below average so we need to continue to save water. I am asking water companies to act swiftly to stop the leaks which are leading to millions of gallons of water being wasted every day, Londoners can also play their part by saving water as much as possible at home. We need everyone to pull together to help conserve this precious natural resource.
As well as immediate water savings during the current drought I have encouraged Londoners to use water wisely in the longer term. My Climate Resilient Schools Programme is now working directly with 100 London schools to deliver water saving advice and measures including use of low water devices, turning off unused taps and rainwater harvesting. My London Plan includes policies promoting the need for water metering and efficiency, including requirements for new developments to minimise water usage.

Awareness Raising around Water Efficiency (2)

Leonie Cooper: How will you be sharing these messages to ensure they reach Londoners?

The Mayor: Through my social media channels I encourage Londoners to reduce the pressure on our water supplies and save water at home. I also support communications from the water companies with more detailed water use advice.
Through regular meetings with the water companies my Deputy Mayor Shirley Rodrigues is sending a very clear message to take urgent action to stop the leaks in our water supply network which lead to millions of gallons of water being wasted every day and to invest to improve our ageing water infrastructure.
Through my London Plan I am asking developers to minimise the use of mains water and to incorporate measures such as metering and water saving and recycling measures, to help achieve lower water use rates.
Through my Climate Resilient Schools and Schools Climate Kick Start programmes I am ensuring that longer term messages around sustainable water use reach young Londoners across the capital.

Water Efficiency and the GLA Group (2)

Leonie Cooper: What assessment has been made of the water efficiency of GLA group buildings? What improvements have been made as a result of these assessments?

The Mayor: GLA Group buildings are regularly assessed for water usage and for improvements in water efficiency. For example, TfL reports on water efficiency at head offices on a 4-weekly basis and is working towards an annual consumption target of 4m3/FTE-person (currently 5.6m3/person). The LFB monitors water usage through analysis of bills and addresses issues when highlighted through this process, including leaks. LFB station commanders and green champions help ensure water saving actions are taken at sites. Water demand in MPS buildings is monitored through monthly cost and consumption reporting. LLDC have a target to protect and improve on the 40% reduction in potable water use designed into the venues. For example, in 2019, London Aquatics Centre achieved 18% reduction in water consumption against the 2014 baseline, and Copper Box Arena achieved a 12% reduction. City Hall incorporates water efficient fixtures and fittings to contribute to 50% reduction of potable consumption.

Water Efficiency in New Developments

Leonie Cooper: What additional requirements do you think would be helpful to improve water efficiency across London? Will these be included in revisions to the London Plan?

The Mayor: The London Plan 2021 contains strong requirements aimed at improving water efficiency across London, including requiring developments to achieve water mains consumption of 105 litres or less per person per day, to achieve the BREEAM excellent standard for water consumption in commercial development, and through measures like smart metering, water saving and recycling, including retrofitting. The Plan further promotes sustainable drainage in new developments that uses rainwater as a resource, contributing to water efficiency. Officers are monitoring adherence to and impact of these policies in planning proposals, which will influence whether stronger requirements are needed in the next London Plan iteration.
I also continue to hold water companies to account on the need to reduce leakage rates and major water mains bursts, and to promote waterwise usage amongst customers. I support an approach to ensuring future system resilience that balances planning for new strategic water resources with increasing demand management.

Housing for women leaving the criminal justice system (5)

Siân Berry: In your response to the Assembly motion, Safer Homes for Women Leaving Prison, you said:
“London Blueprint partners have submitted an Expression of Interest to the government to pilot a London Women’s Problem-Solving Court.” Could you update me on the Blueprint partners’ progress with this?

The Mayor: The EOI was led and submitted by London Probation. It was to pilot a problem solving court approach around a Magistrates Court with the aim of reducing the use of short-term prison sentences for women. We understand the EOI was unsuccessful. We are re-engaging with the MoJ and partners to pursue other opportunities in this area.

Housing for women leaving the criminal justice system (4)

Siân Berry: In your response to the Assembly motion, Safer Homes for Women Leaving Prison, you said:
“I am supporting the rollout of the Women’s Community Sentence Treatment Requirement (CSTR) pilot across London.” MOPAC decision PCD 1110 extended this pilot until 30 September 2022. What plans do you have to further extend this pilot to prevent a gap in service provision, which was one of the reasons for extending its original end date of 31 March 2022, especially as the provision has since been doubled to cover 12 boroughs?

The Mayor: I supported and funded the South London Women’s Community CSTR pilot in London. Initially, the pilot was delivered to eligible women resident in six South London Boroughs and then extended to twelve. It ran from 17 February 2020 to 30 September 2022. Having proved successful NHS England are committed to continuing and extend delivery across London. NHS roll-out began on 1 October 2022, preventing a gap in service delivery. By 2023/2024, service delivery will cover all London’s boroughs.

London Food Board

Hina Bokhari: According to the GLA website, it is now over a year since the London Food Board last met, whereas it is supposed to meet a minimum of four times a year. What are the reasons for this, and when is the Board next due to meet?

The Mayor: The board met on 3 May 2022 and the GLA website has been updated with this meeting and its minutes. The next meeting will be on 3 November 2022 and an agenda will be published shortly. Other work on food has taken place in between these meetings including with members of the food board.

Food insecurity

Hina Bokhari: The most recent Survey of Londoners, carried out in 2021-2022, suggests that levels of food insecurity have fallen since the previous survey from 2019. What assessment have you made of the reasons for this and the reliability of this data?

The Mayor: Both Surveys of Londoners in 2018/19 and 2021/22 were conducted by NatCen, Britain’s largest independent social research agency. The sample was designed to be representative of London’s population, using the ‘gold standard’ method of random sampling from the Postcode Address File. The large sample size also meant that London-level estimates from this survey are more reliable than other surveys of Londoners. Further details can be found in the survey’s technical report. After fieldwork started, some pandemic-related restrictions were introduced. This may or may not have affected the data, so we advise caution when interpreting the results.
There are factors that may be attributed to food insecurity, including government measures put in place during the pandemic to support those whose incomes were affected (such as the £20 Universal Credit uplift), and community measures to help those in need. Some Londoners who switched to remote working may have reduced spending on transport and other costs, leaving more for food.

London Fire Brigade – fire safety inspectors (2)

Hina Bokhari: How will LFB incentivise employees to become fire safety inspectors?

The Mayor: London Fire Brigade (LFB) is commencing a review of pay scales of non-operational staff. However, there continues to be a sector wide demand for qualified inspecting officers and fire engineers, with market rate pressure from both the public and private sector leading to significantly higher salaries being available.
The introduction of Fire Safety Checks by operational staff is raising the profile (and knowledge) of fire safety across LFB’s operational workforce. A pilot programme began in April 2022 where firefighters have been released to train to become inspecting officers, with the first cadre now working in area teams. This pilot demonstrates career development opportunities and alternative shift pattern options for operational staff and is due to be evaluated in April 2023.
Additionally, operational staff are also eligible to apply for the fire engineering degree program, which should result in more operational colleagues joining non-operational staff in this highly skilled role.

London Fire Brigade – fire safety inspectors (1)

Hina Bokhari: How many fire safety inspectors are employed by LFB, and what targets and timescales does it have to reach the necessary number?

The Mayor: London Fire Brigade (LFB) currently has 105 Inspecting Officers and 53 Fire Safety Advisers in post at a variety of development and qualification stages, with some in specialist roles such as developing new staff. LFB is currently developing a workforce plan to consider the requirements of the Risk Based Inspection Program as well as the projected requirements of working with the new Building Safety Regulator (BSR). Current projections for the BSR indicate that an additional 46 inspectors will be required, together with a number of fire engineers and associated staff.
Work is underway to recruit and train additional officers to achieve a full workforce of inspectors who are qualified to inspect premises, including those of higher risk, over the next two to three years. Staff undertaking BSR work will initially be government funded for two years and then ongoing costs will be refunded by government on a bill-back basis for work undertaken.

London Fire Brigade - risk-based inspections (2)

Hina Bokhari: How many buildings does LFB consider to be high risk in London, and how many times are they audited?

The Mayor: London Fire Brigade (LFB), under the existing Risk Based Inspection Programme (RBIP), has circa 9500 premises which are defined as higher risk. This is based on their inherent Relevant Risk Level (RRL). Planned reinspection frequency is determined by the RRL but typically this is between six months and three years. Premises types within this classification include hospitals, care homes/sheltered premises, high rise residential but can also be schools, shops and licensed premises.
Due to a variety of factors, including the Building Risk Review, the pandemic, resources, and demand- led work, it has not been possible to inspect all premises within the timescales expected under the current RBIP. The definition of higher risk occupancy is currently being re-evaluated at a national level via National Fire Chiefs Council and this will inform the Brigade’s updated RBIP, which is due to be delivered in April 2023.

London Fire Brigade - risk-based inspections (1)

Hina Bokhari: The LFB did not meet targets for risk-based inspections according to the HMICFRS report, 2020-21, and according to Commissioner Andy Roe, speaking to the Fire, Resilience and Emergency Planning Committee, it does not carry these out consistently with Government criteria, which he regards as out-of-date. Please define the model used by LFB to base its risk-based inspections and the definition of high-risk buildings.

The Mayor: The current London Fire Brigade (LFB) Risk Based Inspection Program (RBIP) uses national guidance and methodology to identify the relative risk level of a premises and a score to determine the reinspection frequency.
The guidance and statistics behind the existing national methodology have not been updated since 2009 and the method does not sufficiently take account of differentiations in the use of different premises. In addition, London has a unique risk profile to consider, as highlighted by the Building Risk Review led by the Fire Protection Board.
LFB intends to deliver a revised RBIP in April 2023 to align with its Community Risk Management Plan. That RBIP will incorporate a new definition of higher risk occupancy which is currently being finalised by National Fire Chiefs Council. It will also allow for a wider range of fire safety interventions and identify how all LFB interactions can be measured to demonstrate how LFB has affected the risk rating of a premises.

Sustainability in the hospitality sector

Sem Moema: How is your office working with SMEs in the hospitality industry to help them improve their sustainability and thus their resilience?

The Mayor: Please refer to my answer to MQ 2022/3365.

Innovation Partnership

Sem Moema: How many homes have been retrofitted to date as a result of the Innovation Partnership you announced last year?

The Mayor: Please see my answer to MQ 2022/3224 for more information about my Retrofit Accelerator- Homes Innovation Partnership.

London Power (1)

Susan Hall: When is your current estimate for London Power to break even?

The Mayor: The energy market has been in an abnormal state for over a year, with record wholesale prices meaning that customers are best served by staying with their existing energy supplier. This is preventing customers from switching to London Power, and therefore growth.
In Spring 2022, we reviewed the level of resource provided to London Power to ensure that all regulatory and contractual requirements were fulfilled, but minimising non-essential activities (customer acquisition, stakeholder engagement, and non-essential reporting). We therefore aim to operate at no net cost to Londoners in 2022/23 and our costs will be covered by the money that comes in through commission.

London Power (2)

Susan Hall: How much money has London Power already lost against the GLA's loan and how much more is it estimated to lose?

The Mayor: The GLA has provided London Power with a loan of up to £906,000 to cover its maximum projected debt position as outlined in the business case, essentially to help meet its running costs until the company breaks even from commission from Octopus Energy . As of 31 March 2022, £159,000 of this loan had been called upon.
As per my response to MQ 2022/3546, we aim for London Power to operate at no net cost to Londoners in 2022/23.

Stolen phones (1)

Susan Hall: For each year, Oct 2015 to Sep 2016, Oct 2016 to Sep 2017, Oct 2017 to Sep 2018, Oct 2018 to Sep 2019, Oct 2019 to Sep 2020, Oct 2020 to Sep 2021 and Oct 2021 to Sep 2022, how many mobile phones have been reported stolen via robbery?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have provided the attached information as a response to both this question and MQ 2022/3548 questions which details the figures for the requested time periods. The data presents the figures for robbery of personal property and of business property separately with a total for each period.

The Mayor: 3547_&_3548 Stolen Phones (1-2) (1).xlsx

Stolen phones (2)

Susan Hall: For each year, Oct 2015 to Sep 2016, Oct 2016 to Sep 2017, Oct 2017 to Sep 2018, Oct 2018 to Sep 2019, Oct 2019 to Sep 2020, Oct 2020 to Sep 2021 and Oct 2021 to Sep 2022, how many mobile phones reported stolen via robbery have been recovered?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have provided the attached information as a response to both MQ 2022/3547 and this question which details the figures for the requested time periods. The data presents the figures for robbery of personal property and of business property separately with a total for all periods.

The Mayor: 3547_&_3548 Stolen Phones (1-2) (1).xlsx

Green New Deal grant funding and sustainability in the hospitality sector

Sem Moema: What learning has been taken for SMEs in the hospitality sector from the Green New Deal grant funding offered through ReLondon? How can this learning be upscaled for bigger organisations?

The Mayor: Please see my response to MQ 3366 - GND hospitality sector.docx

Better practice on sustainability in the hospitality sector

Sem Moema: Does the hospitality sector in London have enough support to encourage better practice on sustainability and climate change?

The Mayor: Please refer to my answer to MQ 2022/3367.

Trees

Len Duvall: How many trees have you planted in Lewisham and Greenwich since you became Mayor?

The Mayor: Since 2016, I have supported the planting of 21,529 trees in Lewisham, and 12,245 in Greenwich. The figures for all boroughs can be found in the answer to MQ 2022/2891.

Water Fountains (2)

Len Duvall: How many more fountains are planned to be installed in Lewisham and Greenwich over the next 2 years?

The Mayor: To help Londoners ditch single-use plastic bottles and reduce plastic waste, I partnered with Thames Water to install a network of 110 drinking fountains across the capital. The programme was successfully completed this summer, achieving my London Environment Strategy and Manifesto commitments.
Seven fountains were installed in Lewisham and five fountains were installed in Greenwich as part of this programme. In additional, I supported the installation of two fountains in Lewisham as part of the Zoological Society of London’s #Oneless initiative.
Whilst I do not currently have any plans to install additional public fountains, I have installed 20 fountains in London schools to increase the number of water-only schools. This included two fountains at schools in Greenwich. I plan to install a further 20 fountains in schools this year and my officers are currently assessing bids received from interested schools

Water Fountains (1)

Len Duvall: How many water fountains have been installed in Lewisham and Greenwich since you have been elected?

The Mayor: To help Londoners ditch single-use plastic bottles and reduce plastic waste, I partnered with Thames Water to install a network of 110 drinking fountains in busy areas across the capital. I'm delighted that the programme, which installed 110 fountains across 23 London broughs, was successfully completed this summer. Seven fountains were installed in Lewisham and five fountains were installed in Greenwich.
Through the Zoological Society of London’s #Oneless initiative, I also helped install a further 28 fountains across London, including two fountains in Lewisham.
I have also installed 20 drinking fountains in London schools to increase the number of water only schools. This included two fountains at schools in Greenwich.
To further support this work my partnership with City to Sea to deliver the Refill London campaign has provided over 4,300 free water refill points across London, many of which are in Lewisham and Greenwich

Night time strategies

Leonie Cooper: What are you doing to help local councils develop and implement night time strategies?

The Mayor: My Night Czar and 24 Hour London Team provide significant support to local councils in developing and implementing their night time strategies.
They have produced world-leading guidance on how to create night time strategies. Boroughs can access dedicated one-to-one support with specialist consultants, as well as night time data through the High Street Data Service to inform policy and decision making.
My Night Czar regularly holds Night Surgeries with boroughs and chairs the Night Time Champions Network, to ensure London’s political leadership has the latest insight into 24 hour policy.
In addition, my Night Time Enterprise Zones Fund is allowing boroughs to create localised night time plans that support the social and economic recovery of high streets and town centres, the learnings of which will inform strong, evidence-based long term night time strategies .

Food Banks

Leonie Cooper: What more are you doing to help struggling food banks in London given the cost of living crisis?

The Mayor: I recognise the great work that the food aid sector does across our city. Earlier this year I saw this work first-hand on a site visit to a food bank in Newham. We need to be clear that food banks offer Londoners help in a crisis but too many Londoners are being put into this position due to failures and inadequacies in the system of financial support for Londoners.
Through my Foot Roots Programme, I am grant funding food partnerships to develop more sustainable and dignified models. This includes supporting partnerships to take a cash-first approach which gives families control over what they choose to eat. The programme also looks to provide support services to tackle the causes of lower incomes caused by failings in the benefit system and the issue of problem debt. The next round of the programme is due to be launched before the end of the year.

Monitoring air pollution at City Hall (3)

Siân Berry: Thank you for your answer to my question 2022/2924 on monitoring air pollution at City Hall. Given that measurements at the Hoola building are over new WHO limits, will you undertake further actions, including reviewing any future planning applications?

The Mayor: Pollution levels at the Hoola building are within the legal limits, though above the WHO guidelines, with NO2 concentrations averaging 21 µg/m3 this year to date.
I am lobbying the government to adopt the WHO Guidelines and my actions to improve air quality, including increased electrification of the vehicle fleet and associated charging infrastructure; increased provision for walking and cycling; and the potential further expansion of the ULEZ London-wide, will continue to drive improvements across London. Furthermore, the local actions set out in Newham’s Air Quality Action Plan should continue to drive further improvements around City Hall.
I expect all developments in London to meet the requirements of my London Plan, including those for air quality. Where planning applications are referrable to me under the Town and Country Planning (Mayor of London) Order 2008, my officers will continue to scrutinise them appropriately, as they would anywhere in London.

Monitoring air pollution at City Hall (2)

Siân Berry: Thank you for your answer to my question 2022/2924 on monitoring air pollution at City Hall. Will you now install diffusion tubes on the City Hall estate so that pollution near entrances and along nearby footpaths can be monitored?

The Mayor: The area around City Hall is well served by numerous air quality monitoring sites, this includes both reference analysers and Nitrogen Dioxide diffusion tubes which give a good indication of the pollution levels at City Hall.
Continuous reference monitors are located at the Hoola Tower (NO2), Britannia Gate, Wren Close (both have NO2, PM10, PM2.5, O3 & SO2) and Newham Dockside (NO2).
Diffusion tubes are currently located at Hallesville primary school, Brittania Village primary school, Brunel Hallsville Rd, Tant Avenue and St Luke’s primary school.
The data from these monitoring sites will be regularly reviewed. I will continue to focus my resources on acting on air pollution and providing air quality monitoring to areas and communities that are currently underserved through my Breathe London network.

Sport Programme for Women Refugees and Asylum Seekers (1)

Emma Best: On 23rd September you announced a programme to improve access to sport and activity for women refugees and asylum seekers. Please can you detail which six boroughs will participate in this programme and how they were selected?

The Mayor: The boroughs that will participate in the programme during 2022-23 have yet to be confirmed. However, we will be prioritising boroughs that have the largest number of accommodated Afghan evacuees, people seeking asylum and resettled refugees based on the best available data.

Job Creation

Shaun Bailey: How many jobs have you created since you became Mayor? Please give a breakdown by sector, year, scheme, borough and cost.

The Mayor: The GLA are currently setting up a process to monitor job creation consistently as part of our reporting across the GLA family's programmes and policies. This piece of work will allow the GLA to measure jobs by year, scheme, and by other splits (where possible). The results for this project will be available next year.
For the most recent data, please see the response to the question 2022/0815 earlier this year.

Fast Food Outlets

Andrew Boff: How many fast food outlets currently operate across the TfL network or on TfL's wider estate?

The Mayor: There is no industry standard classification for ‘Fast Food’ outlets, and therefore Transport for London (TfL) is not able to classify in this way.
Of the data available, 292 premises across TfL’s estate are categorised as ‘Food and Beverage’ which encompasses a wide range of businesses, from Pret-a-Manger to The Sea The Sea in Haggerston Arches.
Due to historic leases and leases registered to personal or non-trading names, TfL does not have category data for all the businesses on its estate. It is currently reviewing its records and looking at ways to improve its data to help create thriving, sustainable places that are inclusive to further meet the needs of all Londoners. Given that 93 per cent of all businesses on its estate are SMEs, TfL is already providing a varied and diverse offer to Londoners.

Free travel for low-paid GLA workers and contractors

Siân Berry: You have extended free travel to the lowest paid contractors, catering and security staff who work for Transport for London (TfL). Will you now extend that support for the cost of living to other low-paid staff who work for the GLA Group, including those at City Hall?

The Mayor: I was proud to be able to announce plans to extend free travel to the lowest paid employees of Transport for London’s suppliers – mainly in cleaning and security – last month.
My plans to extend free travel to these third-party employees will set right that disparity and bring more workers into line with the benefits available to direct employees of TfL.
Because TfL already provides free travel to their direct employees, the plans to give free travel to these workers would be an extension of an existing TfL practice.
The pay and conditions of other workers from across the GLA Group are of course not overseen by TfL, and no workers in other parts of the GLA Family are given free travel on the TfL network.
Free travel is a benefit reserved for TfL employees, and it is only right that those on the lowest pay who are contracted to do jobs on the TfL network are afforded the same support.
I am proud that the GLA Group is committed to paying all of its employees the London Living Wage, as well as being committed to the Good Work Standard. It’s right that we lead by example from City Hall, and thanks to this approach, across London we now have over 140,000 people working for over 2,700 real Living Wage Employers – four times more employers than when I became Mayor in 2016.
If any member of GLA staff is struggling with the increased cost of living, I would encourage them to get in touch with their managers. I know that corporate management teams are committed to doing everything they can to help our staff through this time.

CRMP

Susan Hall: How do you intend to ensure that the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) report from LFB will be ready by January [2023]?

The Mayor: The public consultation on the draft Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) closed on 25th July. The Commissioner has reviewed the responses, including the detailed response from the FREP Committee, and revised the CRMP. I have agreed that the final draft can now be sent to Fire, Resistance and Emergency Planning Committee for their consideration on behalf of the Assembly, which will happen at their meeting on 19th October. I will review any comments they make on the final draft and then determine whether to agree to publication of the CRMP for it to start on 1 January 2023.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) Inspection

Susan Hall: Matt Parr from HMICFRS described the LFB’s performance as disappointing from the 2018 report to now against inspection metrics in the September Fire, Resilience and Emergency Planning (FREP) Committee meeting. Can you confirm how you are assisting the LFB with improving their performance.

The Mayor: I welcomed the latest report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services into London Fire Brigade (LFB). It is vital that we can all feel confident in LFB’s ability to keep Londoners safe.
It is encouraging that the Brigade has taken immediate action against many of the issues raised in the latest report, while others will be addressed in LFB’s new Community Risk Management Plan.
I will continue to work with the Commissioner and the Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience to ensure the Brigade makes the necessary progress needed between now and the next inspection.

Stop and Search

Shaun Bailey: For each year Oct 2019 to Sep 2020, Oct 2020 to Sep 2021 and Oct 2021 to Sep 2022, please provide the number of people stopped and searched (by the Met) by ethnicity, broken down by:

• Searched by Black police officers
• Searched by White police officers
• Searched by Asian police officers

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) advises me that the ethnicity of officers conducting a stop and search is not recorded as part of the stop and search record. In order to answer this question, each stop and search record would need to be examined and the warrant number of the officer matched with separate HR data. I have been advised that it is not possible for the MPS to provide this information.

Good Work Standard

Shaun Bailey: How many employers and employees have signed up to your Good Work Standard since you became Mayor? Please give a breakdown by sector.

The Mayor: There are 113 accredited Good Work Standard employers, employing over 243,000 employees.
32 are public sector, 68 are private businesses, 13 are third sector organisations or charities.

Rising Energy Costs and the GLA group (3)

Len Duvall: How are rising energy prices likely to impact on London Fire Brigade’s budget for 2023/24?

The Mayor: The Government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme for non-domestic energy customers has only been confirmed up to 31 March 2023. A continuation of high energy prices will put pressures on the London Fire Brigade’s budget for 2023/24. The impact of this is being considered by the Brigade as part of their budget submission, which is being prepared now in readiness for publication by 25 November 2022.

LGBT+ venues in London

Nick Rogers: Can you provide the number of LGBT+ venues in London each year since 2017?

The Mayor: LGBTQ+ venues are important community spaces for Londoners, providing safe and welcoming places to meet. In 2017 there were 47 LGBTQ+ venues in operation in London, and the number increased to 51 in 2018. The 2017 and 2018 analyses built upon LGBTQ+ venues data published in UCL Urban Lab report ‘LGBTQ+ Cultural Infrastructure in London: Night Venues, 2006-present’ written by Dr Ben Campkin and Laura Marshall. The 2019 audit of LGBTQ+ venues conducted as part of my Cultural Infrastructure Plan showed that the number of LGBTQ+ venues remained stable, at 51.
A new data update to the Cultural Infrastructure Map is currently underway. The first comprehensive update since the COVID-19 pandemic, it will analyse how COVID-19, Brexit and the cost of living crisis have affected cultural infrastructure provision, resilience and needs and will be published later this year.

The Health of London’s Waterways (2)

Leonie Cooper: Which of London’s rivers have been impacted by this summer’s sewage releases?

The Mayor: My officers have contacted Thames Water for the requested data, Thames Water have acknowledged the request and we will share the information with you. Real-time data for sewage releases are not yet available from Thames Water, currently they are published annually, you can see 2021 data on the Thames Water website or on the Rivers Trust Sewage Map.
Thames Water have made a commitment to provide live, publicly available sewage discharge notifications at all its 468 sites (including 130 in Greater London) by the end of 2022 and they have told me they are on track to meet this commitment by the end of the year. They will be the first water company to make this data available in real-time.

Rising Energy Costs and the GLA group (2)

Len Duvall: How are rising energy prices likely to impact on The Metropolitan Police Service’s budget for 2023/24?

The Mayor: Rising energy prices will be factored into the MOPAC 2023-24 Budget Submission, which is due to be published on 25th November. Work to understand the implications of this is currently under way. This includes a thorough review of the arrangements in place for MPS energy procurement and the contractual arrangements in place with other suppliers.

Obesity (3)

Krupesh Hirani: What work are you doing to tackle obesity in London?

The Mayor: Work to tackle child obesity is being delivered through the Healthy Place, Healthy Weight recovery mission. The approach is to create healthier environments in the most disadvantaged areas with a commitment that by 2024 children and young people will find it easier to eat healthy food and be more active where they live, learn, shop, work and play.
Following the evaluation of my policy restricting junk food advertising across the TfL estate, which showed the effectiveness of the policy in supporting the health of Londoners, local authorities will be supported to adopt the policy locally. By 2024 50 grants will have been provided to boroughs to develop healthier environments around schools through my School Superzones programme. under the mission alignes with the London Child Obesity Taskforce’s calls to action and other partnership work, and is supported by work in other missions to tackle financial disadvantage which is closely associated with obesity.

Obesity (4)

Krupesh Hirani: Childhood obesity is more prevalent in London than in any other English region – how is the GLA’s work and that of the Childhood Obesity Taskforce helping to try to reduce this prevalence?

The Mayor: Through the Healthy Place, Healthy weight Recovery Mission work is underway to create healthier environments to support the health and weight of London’s families. Action includes tackling unhealthy advertising, support for infant feeding including breastfeeding and supporting more schools to become water only. We also now have 40 School Superzones across 17 London boroughs, which are being supported by 23 grants to support work boosting children’s health in areas of greatest deprivation where prevalence of child obesity is highest.
Wider action address child obesity, has been committed to by London Child Obesity Delivery board, convened under the London Vision for Health and Care. The partnership will the take forward calls to action published by London’s Child Obesity Taskforce. Taskforce members have transitioned to form my Mayor’s Advisory Group on Child Healthy Weight (MAGCHW) and will continue to provide expert advice to ensure delivery against GLA and Mayoral owned commitments.

Mental Health

Krupesh Hirani: Last week the NHS launched its ‘You Good, London’ campaign to support the mental health of 18–25-year-olds in London. Can you tell us how the GLA has supported this campaign?

The Mayor: I know that the cost-of-living crisis and distressing national and international events are putting a strain on the mental health and wellbeing of young Londoners. This is why the NHS’s current ‘You Good, London’ campaign is so important, and I am committed to continuing to promote it across my channels.
This campaign grew from a joint programme of activity we designed in partnership with young leaders in London, Public Health England and NHS London in the summer of 2021. 31 organisations across 20 London Boroughs hosted activities and engagement events to speak to young people about their physical and mental health.
In addition, City Hall hosted the World Mental Health Day festival for young Londoners alongside Thrive LDN. It was attended by my Deputy Mayor for Children and Families, Joanne McCartney. This provided further opportunities for young people to connect, while learning about new and existing mental health and wellbeing services.
I’m committed to taking every opportunity to ensure that young people not only feel empowered and confident to seek the mental health and wellbeing support they need, but also know where and how to access it.

Holiday Activity and Food Programme

Emma Best: At Mayor's Question Time on the 21st July [2022] you stated that you would visit a club delivering the Government's Holiday Activity and Food Programme, or one of your Deputy Mayors would. Can you confirm which club you or one of your Deputy Mayors visited?

The Mayor: On Tuesday 16th August, Deputy Mayor Debbie Weekes Bernard was pleased meet Taz Khan MBE to learn about the work of London’s Community Kitchen (LCK) and visit several LCK projects.
This included an innovative Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) kitchen project, which prepared up to 1000 meals a day for children and delivered them fresh to HAF clubs across Brent and Harrow throughout the summer holidays. Brent Borough Council provided kitchen facilities to LCK to make this possible, and meals were cooked using fresh surplus food sourced by LCK.
This visit gave the Deputy Mayor the opportunity to witness first-hand the realities of the HAF programme and see how boroughs and community organisations are working together to support the most vulnerable children in London.

Aviation noise complaints

Zack Polanski: Constituents have told me that they do not trust systems for complaining about aviation noise, are not sure who to complain to, and are concerned that they are not being listened to. Will you consider setting up a single hub to complain about aviation noise that would provide an independent body Londoners could trust?

The Mayor: I share the concern of your constituents about the noise impacts of London’s airports on local communities. However, I do not have direct powers to influence the use of airspace as this is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Given my limited powers in this area, establishing a mayoral hub for aviation noise complaints is unlikely to aid the situation and unfortunately there is no statutory basis to do so. Constituents with complaints should direct these through the CAA. Meanwhile, I will continue to make strong representations to the airports to defend the interests of local communities and welcome input and support from the Assembly to do so.

London’s Sustainable Drainage System progress (2)

Zack Polanski: Thank you for your answer to my question 2022/0016 on London’s progress with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). Could you provide an updated table on your progress on this for the financial year 2021-22, including details of: a) each organisation responsible, b) the area of installed SuDS catchment, and c) a summary of schemes involved?

The Mayor: The GLA does not hold this detailed level of data.
In 2021/22 TfL has installed 500sqm of SuDS. Through borough reporting to TfL, boroughs have installed 6785sqm of SuDS in the financial year 21/22. However, there may be more SuDS installed on London’s highways than is reported. The final breakdown will be published by TfL in a borough delivery report.
Nevertheless, funding for SuDS via other streams has been ongoing, such as via my Grow Back Greener Fund (8 projects that include SuDS funded in 2021), Green and Healthy Streets (19 projects) and the Thames Water Surface Water Management Plan (20 projects funded in 2021) and through London boroughs own funding.
My SuDS retrofit map shows that delivery of SuDS is widespread across London and delivered via many different organisations such as boroughs, charities and housing associations. I am working with boroughs officers and others to encourage boroughs to delivery more schemes.

Tree planting by year and borough (2)

Zack Polanski: Thank you for your answer to my question 2022/2891 on tree planting in London. There is now a severe drought, and councils are asking residents to water new trees to avoid losing them. Could you provide figures on the number of trees lost to drought in GLA-supported tree planting in London by year since 2016, broken down by borough? Could you provide this data in table format?

The Mayor: The GLA does not hold figures on the number of trees lost to drought in GLA-supported tree planting schemes.
The Forestry Commission have put in place a process for extraordinary payments for replanting trees and woodlands after the hot and dry weather this year, see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hot-and-dry-weather-temporary-support-for-trees-and-woodland-in-2022. Depending on the level of tree losses, this can support replacement trees for some schemes in London including those I’ve provided match funding for through the Urban Tree Challenge Fund and woodland creation.
My Deputy Mayor Shirley Rodrigues wrote to Thames Water in August to make representations on their proposed Temporary Use Ban (TUB) related to tree watering. Thames Water subsequently updated the exceptions to the TUB to allow trees to be watered for the first three years after planting, see exception 23: https://www.thameswater.co.uk/help/water-restrictions/legal-notice

Independent review into 2021 flooding (2)

Zack Polanski: Thank you for your answer to my question 2022/2895, in which you mentioned that a new multi-agency group is being established to ensure improvements are made to surface water management. What budget will this group have, how much will be funded by the GLA, and what investment programme will it have to solve surface water flooding?

The Mayor: The new multi-agency group to deliver a surface water strategy will meet for the first time in December 2022. The GLA, Transport for London and Thames Water have collectively committed £50,000 each in the first year a total of £150,000 in 2022/23 towards the formation of this multi-agency group and development of the London wide surface water flooding strategy. Commitment to providing ongoing funding for future years from these organisations is being discussed and financial contributions from other partners are also being sought.The scope of the London wide strategy is being developed at present, working with stakeholder organisations.
The scope of the plan and what can be delivered will be agreed upon at the first meeting of the Strategic Group in December. An action plan is proposed to be a key deliverable in addition to the pan London strategy. The amount of investment required, and the delivery programme will not be clear until these plans are complete.
Some of this year’s funding has been used to produce and distribute a leaflet warning of basement flood risk. This was sent to properties ahead of last summer to warn of the potential risk they face and how to prepare, including key contacts during/after a flood.

Fracking in Sutton, Croydon and Bromley

Zack Polanski: There is a license for fracking (PEDL 245) that covers large parts of Sutton, Croydon and Bromley. Now that the Government has removed the ban on fracking, what actions are you taking to protect these areas from this dangerous practice?

The Mayor: I have always made my opposition to fracking clear and have adopted a strong policy in my London Plan which states that any planning proposals for development to enable fracking should be refused.
Fracking is fundamentally incompatible with our efforts to address the climate emergency and to make London a zero-carbon city. There are also clear risks to Londoners and the local environment from fracking operations including risks of water contamination and earthquakes. Fracking operations would also increase demand on already over-stressed water supplies.
I will continue to make the case to Government where the opportunity arises including in relation to future changes to the planning process and planning policy.

Free School Meals (2)

Emma Best: Your response to question 2022/2635 made clear that you didn't know the cost of introducing Universal Free School Meals (FSM). In order to lobby effectively for universal FSM would it not make sense to fully understand those costs, at least in London, to put forward the case of how this can be achieved?

The Mayor: Under the current Government scheme, it’s not possible to know the breakdown of cost as the Pupil Premium can be spent on other support services, such as extra tuition or after school activities. Furthermore, total cost to the Government for rolling this out universally cannot be fully estimated due to economies of scale – for example, when Islington introduced Universal Infant FSM, they partnered with Camden on a joint procurement which led to an average saving of £1m per year for Islington alone. However, we do know that this would provide considerable savings for families living with significant financial struggles right now. City Hall has estimated that the number of primary school children in London who might benefit from FSM, if made universal, is around 270,000. With the average cost of a school meal at primary level being £2.25 - £2.35, this would save approximately £440 annually for families, per child.

Resilience for a future heatwave

Zack Polanski: Londoners have complained about homes overheating during the heatwaves this summer. What steps are you taking to estimate and prepare for the scale of this problem, before a future heatwave hits?

The Mayor: This summer’s extreme weather shows the urgency of tackling climate change, by reducing emissions and preparing for the impacts.
For existing homes and buildings, I am promoting heat mitigation measures such as solar shading and ventilation within the Warmer Homes, Retrofit Accelerator (Homes), and the Retrofit Accelerator (Workplaces) Programmes, a London wide issue as is the case in other cities. I have commissioned research to support guidance into retrofit measures, to create cooler homes and buildings.
For new buildings, developers are expected to use the London Plan’s cooling hierarchy to mitigate overheating risk.I have commissioned research, “Heat Risk in London” to identify what more can be done.
My Affordable Homes Programme 2021-26 introduced six new sustainability requirements, which set minimum standards including the management of heat risk.
Despite these efforts, local authorities face serious funding gaps in adapting to climate change. I call on the UK Government to address this urgently.

Resilience for a further wave of coronavirus

Zack Polanski: What steps are you taking to ensure London has the resilience and preparedness for a further wave of coronavirus?

The Mayor: The resilience arrangements and planning for London remain in place across partnerships ready to respond to a further wave of COVID or any other infectious disease through the London Resilience Forum. UK Health Improvement and Security Agency (UKHSA), as a key partner in London, continues to regularly brief partners on any intelligence relating to the future of the virus. I also meet regularly with UKHSA, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), and the NHS who monitor the COVID infection rates and impact closely.
OHID, UKHSA and the NHS are undertaking a range of winter planning, nationally and regionally, as they do annually, including identifying the specific risks associated with COVID-19 and the actions that are needed to mitigate and control these.
The NHS began the Autumn COVID vaccination programme in September and has had a strong start with more than 330,000 people (up to 10% of the eligible population) nationally having already had an autumn vaccine.

London's CCGs

Emma Best: Can you provide a list of all CCGs in London and tell us what level of engagement you have had with each of them since 2016?

The Mayor: The Government’s 2022 Health and Care Act abolished CCGs, with functions and many of their staff transferred into Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) from 1 July 2022. There are five London ICBs: North West, North Central, North East, South East and South West,replacing the five CCGs operating across the same geographies (formally since 2021). In 2016 there were 32 CCGs, each coterminous with one London borough, save for City and Hackney, which was covered by one CCG.
ICBs’ chairs are represented on my London Health Board (replacing CCG representation), and CCG leaders have been invited to LHB conferences and GP roundtables. ICBs, along with City Hall , participate in health and care partnership work. I wrote to Sir David Sloman in 2019 saying that commissioning at scale should not compromise local action and visibility and that local authorities should be fully engaged, with the opportunity to share their views. I, and my officers, continue to work closely with a range of NHS leaders at different levels in London.

Edmonton Incinerator

Emma Best: Will you instruct your team to look carefully at the health impacts the Edmonton Incinerator will have on residents in Enfield and Waltham Forest?

The Mayor: I published a detailed independent analysis of the health impacts of all waste incineration in London in 2020: https://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/gla_efw_study_final_may2020.pdf.
To protect residents near industrial sources, including energy from waste plants, it is essential to monitor at source so that any issues can be identified and resolved quickly. Monitoring and control of the Edmonton Incinerator is required through the permit issued and enforced by the Environment Agency.
I am committed to continue to reduce pollution from all sources through the policies and levers I have available, including consulting on the expansion of the ULEZ London wide, supporting cleaner vehicles and active travel, and minimising emissions through the Planning system.

LGBT+ Football

Emma Best: Can you now confirm whether you will be taking part in both the Stonewall, London FA and grassroots organisations City Hall Events on the 26th October and Tournament on the 30th as you didn’t do so in response to question 2022/2940?

The Mayor: As confirmed in the response to MQ 2022/2940, we have now received details of the events from the Assembly Member, and have responded in the usual way. Officers are also working to make funding available as a contribution for the Tournament on 30 October.

The Health of London’s Waterways (4)

Leonie Cooper: What impact has a summer of sewage releases had on the health of wildlife in London’s rivers and waterways?

The Mayor: Poor water quality, for example from sewage releases, can affect the ecology of rivers and streams, damaging habitats and harming wildlife. However, during periods of low flows and high temperatures, as we have seen in London this summer, it will be very difficult to attribute impacts to any one given cause. All these influences will affect the resilience of our rivers. High temperatures reduce the ability of water to hold oxygen and low flows exacerbate this by there being less water in total.
The Environment Agency oversees water quality issues, which in turn indicates the health of wildlife. They monitor dissolved oxygen in the Tidal Thames linked to the use of oxygenation needs as a proxy for ecology health. This information is used to apply oxygenation dosing to the tidal Thames if needed, as it was this summer.
The Environment Agency also respond to information from members for the public where fish have been reported in distress. Aeration (water agitation via fountains etc.) was deployed on London rivers this summer, although water quality fell, no dead fish were recorded.

The Health of London’s Waterways (3)

Leonie Cooper: How many sewage works are there in London and which rivers and waterways are they based close to?

The Mayor: There are 7 sewage treatment works in London all managed by Thames Water.
Sewage Treatment Works discharging into the Tidal Thames:
Hogsmill sewage treatment works discharges into the Hogsmill river with a small flow being pumped to the Beverley Brook.
Deephams sewage treatment works discharges into the Salmons Brook (and then the Lower Lea).

Sport Programme for Women Refugees and Asylum Seekers (4)

Emma Best: In your announcement of a new programme to improve access to sport and activity for women refugees and asylum seekers you mentioned the partnership with Queens Park Rangers Community Trust. Have you looked at expanding your partnership to other football clubs and community groups across London?

The Mayor: We chose to partner with Queens Park Rangers Community Trust on this project initially as they were part of the Women’s EURO Legacy group, and this programme is part of that legacy. We have spoken to other partners in London who have run programmes directed at different target groups such as resettled refugee children to use any lessons they have learned and hope that this project will be able to lay a blueprint for activity across London in the future. We would welcome any community groups or organisations that would like to get in touch with us to discuss the programme and support that they could give.

The Health of London’s Waterways (1)

Leonie Cooper: The Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy previously met with Thames Water to discuss her concerns about the health of London’s waterways. Which concerns was she able to raise and what was the response?

The Mayor: The Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy met with Thames Water’s CEO in July. River pollution was on the agenda. Thames are one of the six water companies under ongoing investigation by the water regulators.
The Environment Agency say Thames Water’s recent pollution performance has been poor, having been fined £51m by Ofwat for polluting rivers.
Thames acknowledge the issues, saying the 2021 summer flooding caused particular pollution issues in the capital. Thames are proposing a range of solutions to Ofwat for funding to improve drainage performance, and to tackle sewer overflows which are a permitted but undesirable feature of London’s dated sewer network. Thames are also working with partners on a new surface water flooding strategy and Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan measures which will contribute to improving sewer capacity in the longer term. The Deputy Mayor has asked Thames Water to regularly report back on how they are addressing the pollution issues in London.

London Rewilding Taskforce

Leonie Cooper: Please provide an update on the work of the London Rewilding Taskforce.

The Mayor: My London Rewilding Taskforce has met twice this year, in April and July, with the next meeting planned for November. The members have discussed the principles and feasibility of rewilding in London and are in the process of developing recommendations on potential rewilding opportunities to inform the preparation of a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for London.
To inform these recommendations, the Taskforce completed a call for evidence to gather broader stakeholder input and sought public opinion on rewilding via a Talk London survey and discussion group that was open from June to August 2022.
As part of the recommendations, the Taskforce will also discuss a strategy to engage Londoners in rewilding and its role in combatting the broader climate and ecological emergencies. With C40, the Taskforce is seeking to learn from and share knowledge with other cities globally through a new resource on international rewilding case studies and best practice.

Restoration of London’s Rivers and Waterways (4)

Leonie Cooper: Are there more areas of wetland in London which could be prioritised for restoration?

The Mayor: My officers continue to explore opportunities to restore and create habitats to help reverse biodiversity declines. The London Rivers Restoration Group has recently identified 144 sites where further river restorations totalling 36km could happen. . Round 2 of my Rewild London Fund is currently open for applications to support nature recovery, including river restoration projects such as those identified through this work.
MyRewilding Taskforce is also considering which areas of London could be rewilded to achieve the greatest benefit. This could include the creation of new wetlands to not only support biodiversity, but also to provide natural flood management benefits. The recommendations of the London Rivers Restoration Group and Rewilding Taskforce will be used to inform priorities in the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for London. Last year, I supported the production of the Urban Wetland Design Guide providing practical advice on the design and maintenance of wetlands to improve water quality.

Restoration of London’s Rivers and Waterways (3)

Leonie Cooper: When do you expect work to begin on restoring the additional 10km of rivers and waterways?

The Mayor: As set out in my answer to Question 2022/3682, the target to restore 10km of rivers has already been achieved through the hard work of London’s Catchment Partnerships, including recipients of my green infrastructure grant funding.
However, we must not stop there and should all continue to reverse declines in nature and improve London’s waterways to help the city adapt to the impacts of climate change. I was pleased to announce the opening of Round 2 of my Rewild London Fund earlier this month. This will support more projects to enhance and connect London’s most valuable sites for nature and to restore and create new priority habitats, including waterways.
My London Plan seeks to protect and enhance London’s waterways and encourages river restoration and biodiversity improvements. My officers and I also work closely with stakeholders working to address water quality issues, including the Environment Agency, water companies and boroughs.

Restoration of London’s Rivers and Waterways (2)

Leonie Cooper: How will the additional 10km of rivers and waterways to be restored by 2025 be prioritised?

The Mayor: The 10km target is part of a wider suite of targets for priority habitat restoration I set in my London Environment Strategy to help reverse declines in nature. This target has already been surpassed.
Since 2018, 17,917m of rivers and waterways have been restored. This includes substantial restoration works to break the Turkey Brook in Enfield out of a concrete channel, projects to naturalise the banks of the Silkstream in Barnet and the Crane in Headstone Manor Park in Harrow, and the creation of new habitats to improve water quality in the River Brent in Ealing, all funded through my Green Capital Grants. I also funded smaller-scale projects to improve rivers through my Rewild London and Grow Back Greener funds, including the creation of new marginal habitats in the River Lea to link wildlife sites and improvements to the Hogsmill River to support a newly reintroduced population of water voles.

Restoration of London’s Rivers and Waterways (1)

Leonie Cooper: Please provide a map of the 45 km of London’s rivers and waterways restored since 2000.

The Mayor: Monitoring of river restoration in London is co-ordinated by the London Rivers Restoration Group, chaired by the Environment Agency and of which the GLA is a partner. The group works with Catchment Partnerships in London and Green Space Information for Greater London to record and map river restoration works and has recently published an updated map showing where restoration has occurred and where there are opportunities to restore rivers.
In 2020, the group published a report titled River Restoration in London: a 20 Year Review, which includes further detailed mapping and monitoring information. It should be noted that the report references c.39km of river that have been restored up to 2019. The most recent monitoring by the London Rivers Restoration Group shows that 5,805m of river were restored in 2020 and 5,742m in 2021 bringing the cumulative restoration total for 2000-2021 to more than 50km.

Free School Meals (3)

Emma Best: In response to question 2022/2633 you stated 'I have also called on Government to restore the meal voucher scheme for those eligible for FSMs across holidays, to lift the benefit cap and remove the two-child limit, abolish the no recourse to public funds conditions, and extend eligibility to Healthy Start Vouchers and the Warmer Homes Discount to everyone on Universal Credit.' Can you please advise what the total cost of these measures you are arguing for would be?

The Mayor: In total, implementing the measures I’ve called for would cost in the region of £1.5-2 billion. This is based on the findings of expert analysis from organisations like the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Child Poverty Action Group, as well as the results of independent research I commissioned on the cost-benefit of abolishing No Recourse to Public Funds (NPRF) conditions.
This figure represents less than 1 percent of total spending on social security and pales in comparison to the cost of doing nothing. For example, the estimated cost of child poverty alone, according to Professor Donald Hirsch at Loughborough University, is around £38 billion a year. The report I commissioned on abolishing NRPF conditions also found that it would lead to a net gain of £872 million over 10 years due to improvements in areas such as education, better and more affordable housing, and relief of problem debt.